The White Pearl Foundation hosted its highly anticipated 5th Annual Breakfast for Brain Cancer on Friday, May 19.
The event brought together a diverse group of attendees at the Pacific Room of the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Point Piper, for a morning of inspiration, fundraising and community support.
Suzane Peponis-Brisimis, Founder and Director of the White Pearl Foundation, warmly welcomed the attendees, expressing her gratitude for their presence and their commitment to making a difference in the lives of brain cancer patients. The event was a testament to the strong unity and support within the community.
The Hon. Mark Buttigieg MLC, represented The Hon. Sophie Cotsis MP, NSW Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Work Health and Safety, a long-time supporter of the White Pearl Foundation. Mr Buttigieg’s presence underscored the ongoing commitment of government officials to supporting brain cancer research.
Dr Raymond Cook OAM, distinguished Neurosurgeon and Founder and Director of The Brain Cancer Group, extended his heartfelt appreciation to all those in attendance. He acknowledged the profound impact of their support and emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing brain cancer research.
He also stressed The Brain Cancer Group’s commitment since its establishment to running a very “lean” charity, ensuring that close to 100% of donated funds go directly to the 3 pillars of Research, Education and Support.
Guest speaker Dr Alexander Yuile, Medical Oncologist and PhD Candidate from The Brain Cancer Group, captivated the audience with an informative lecture, providing updates on the organisation’s research program.
His valuable insights shed light on the latest developments in The Brain Cancer Group Databank, an Australasia-first initiative curated and run by TBCG Director Associate Professor Michael Back. Dr Yuile clearly explained how this work has a positive effect on patient care.
Sharing her personal journey, the star of the event was patient guest speaker, Rebecca Scourfield, who touched the hearts of everyone present. Her courageous story resonated deeply and served as a powerful reminder of the importance of continued support and research in the fight against brain cancer.
The White Pearl Foundation also expressed its sincere gratitude to the event’s key sponsors, whose unwavering support made the Breakfast for Brain Cancer possible. Media Sponsor, The Greek Herald, played a crucial role in raising awareness and spreading the message of hope. Print Sponsor, Kaligraphic Print, ensured the event’s promotional materials were of the highest quality. Media and Communications Sponsor, Orama Communications, expertly managed the event’s public relations and communications needs. Additionally, Zest Waterfront Venues provided their award-winning services at a non-profit venue rate, contributing to the overall success of the event.
A message of gratitude was also extended to all the generous prize donors who contributed valuable items towards the raffle and Breakfast for Brain Cancer Bazaar including Mr Roses who contributed of beautiful bouquet of roses for the patient speaker and the stunning rose petals on the tables. Also donating two beautiful flower arrangements as lucky door prizes, new donor, Quay Moments. The support and donations of all, played a crucial role in making the 2023 Breakfast for Brain Cancer a truly memorable and successful event.
Through the collective efforts of the attendees, sponsors, and donors, the breakfast raised close to $23,000 with donations still being received.
For those who were unable to attend the event but would still like to contribute, donations can be made through the White Pearl Foundation’s website at www.whitepearlfoundation.org. All funds donated by the White Pearl Foundation to The Brain Cancer Group go directly to brain cancer research.
