Fundraiser targets the silent killer – Clare Manders, left, is holding a fundraising night for ovarian cancer, something her mum Robyn, right, suffers from. 75877 Picture: Donna Oates

By Bridget Cook
A CRANBOURNE woman is hosting a fundraiser this month to raise funds and awareness for ovarian cancer – an issue that is close to her heart.
Clare Manders’ mothher was diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer three years ago and was told she had just six months to live.
And while her Mum Robyn is still with her today, Ms Manders now wants to help find an early detection test so ovarian cancer is no longer the silent killer that it currently is.
Ms Manders said her mother’s diagnosis took a toll on her, particularly because she had no family support in Victoria.
She said she wanted to help others avoid having to go down the same path.
“This is such a horrible disease, which is becoming more and more common” she said.
“Majority of the time, once you have been diagnosed, it’s generally too late as there are no early detection tests.
“I would like to do all I can to help find early detection tests.”
Ms Manders said the fundraising event would be a great night out with lots of raffles and give-aways, with great prizes donated by generous businesses.
Prizes include a night’s stay at a hotel in the city, a midweek escape in Healesville and vouchers for Luna Park, Gumbuya Park, Amaze ‘n’ Things, Phillip Island Adventure Parks and spray tans.
There will also be finger food, beer, wine and soft drink provided with a DJ entertaining all night.
“Every business I have gone to so far has only been too happy to display brochures for the night and offer donations,” she said.
“I now need the community support in buying tickets so we can make this a successful night and do our bit to help.
“This is such a good cause which doesn’t get much acknowledgement.
“Come and support this wonderful cause and let’s try and make a difference. Together, we can achieve something.”
Ms Manders said she would particularly like to thank Veronica from Officeworks in Cranbourne, Jody from Surreal Beauty Image in Blind Bight and Shaun from Westons Meats in Cranbourne West. “They have been an amazing help and I couldn’t do any of this without them,” she said.
The event will be held on Saturday 25 February from 7pm at the Cranbourne Turf Club, in Grant Street. Tickets are available by calling 0417 049 575 or from Surreal Beauty Image, Blind Bight, and Westons Meats, Cranbourne West.
Ms Manders also opened a bank account at Bendigo Bank Cranbourne for donations and ticket purchases. For ticket purchases, use your name as a reference. The bank details are, BSB, 633-000, A/C, 144180130.