An inspirational Grose Vale woman has raised more than $40,000 for pancreatic cancer research despite herself undergoing a gruelling weekly regime of chemotherapy.
Sandy Eglin was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2014 after beating breast cancer earlier that year. Tests in 2017 showed the pancreatic cancer had returned and spread to her lung and spine.
Recognising a major lack of funding for pancreatic cancer research and subsequent absence of clinical trials, Ms Eglin and daughter Maddy were determined to create an event to raise money for those experiencing a similar battle.
A trivia fundraising night was organised by Ms Eglin and her supporters on, June 23, and North Richmond Panthers – which kindly donated its auditorium – was at capacity with more than 400 people attending on the night. Set up with the goal of raising $10,000, the night exceeded all expectations to raise more than $40,000.
“We are incredibly overwhelmed by the amount of support we received … for our trivia night. We quadrupled our goal and raised $40,000 for Pancreatic Cancer Research,” a social media statement said.
Proceeds of the night went to the Kolling Foundation and Bill Walsh Lab for Translational Cancer Research, the research arm of the Department of Medical Oncology at Royal North Shore Hospital.
“The lab is comprised of a team of medical oncologists and cancer researchers working together to fast-track laboratory discoveries into clinical practice,” the lab stated.
Current research areas include Pancreato-biliary Cancer, which involves investigating clotting in pancreatic cancer, and identifying new biomarkers among other outcomes.
Ms Eglin has thanked local businesses that generously donated prizes for the night, as well as all those who came along to raise funds.
Donations can still be made. To donate, visit https://www.thankq.net.au/donate/v413/Donate1.aspx?ref=5667679757&pid=1
