Latter-day Saint women from all over the Sunshine Coast amassed
much-needed funds for the Cindy Mackenzie Breast Cancer Foundation
with their stunning baked goods. The women made and bought the
sweets, raising more than $1200 in this fifth year of their Dessert
Auction.
The loving effort has become a tradition in response to the "Pinktober" Appeal for donations to breast cancer patients and their families.
Gabi McEwan, a professional property auctioneer whose mother battled breast cancer, gladly donated her time and gavel to the effort. She kept the crowd in a bidding frenzy until the last of the sweets were sold and a lemon meringue pie set a new price record at $60.
Many other participants know first-hand the good that will come from the money. Sandra Bailey, a Latter-day Saint from Nambour, received direct assistance from the Foundation while she was actively fighting the disease.
"My husband was also unwell during my treatment period. The foundation helped with some living expenses and getting children back to school with books and uniforms. I can't express my gratitude enough to this charity," related Sandra with tears.
Kylie Perkin expressed deep thanks on behalf of the Foundation
and acknowledged the long term support given by Latter-day Saint
women in the area.
In years past, the event has been a "Sisters Only" happening, but
this year husbands and their friends made it past the ports of
entry at the meetinghouse and put up their own bids. Some even had
colleagues bidding by phone for the spectacular treats.
"It's a joy to be able to contribute these funds ", says Vanessa
Portors, one of the organizers of the sale. "We're already looking
forward to next year's auction."