It is often said from adversity comes strength, or from sorrow comes great joy.
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And, earlier today, Forster Private Hospital was over joyed to receive a $17,000 cheque from the Forster Tuncurry Boardriders (FBI) Club, raised though last year’s annual Live Like Toby Retro Tag Team Memorial surf competition.
The competition was held annually to remember local surfer, Toby Flew who died in 2014 following a short battle with cancer.
During the past two years the group has raised and donated more than $26,000 to the hospital.
This year’s donation has enabled the hospital to purchase four oncology chairs, doubling the number of chairs to eight, and a training mannequin.
“Without the addition to our oncology ward of these great chairs, patients were getting treatment either away from the convenience of their local hospital or waiting unnecessarily for critical treatment they need,” Forster Private Hospital CEO, Deanne Portelli said.
“Sitting in a comfortable chair to undergo treatment instead of a bed allows our patients to fell like their progress through treatment is positive and makes for family and friends supporting them much easier,” she said.
The Live like Toby banner flies high in Forster and we are honoured to be a part of this.
- Deanne Portelli
An average of 7-12 people a day use the oncology unit at Forster Private Hospital.
Along with the chairs, local photographer and surfer, Dan Kirkman, Something Visual donated a collection of local framed mages which have been mounted on the walls in honour of Toby.
FBI club president Darren McDonagh said his group was keen to now help locally, and donate funds towards the improvement of oncology care.
“We are proud to be able to put something back into the community,” he said.
“And, the room looks magnificent,”
Previous money was gifted to the oncology unit of the Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital, where Toby was treated.
Cape Hawke Community Hospital and Health Association chairman, Roger Lynch described the donation as a fantastic effort.
“Without community organisations there would not be a hospital; we rely on donations.”
Mr Lynch explained the hospital had survived through the generosity of both the community and individuals, with a one-off minuscule donation from the government during its early days.
“Our hospital provides a great service and we are keen to see oncology expand.”
Jeanene Duncan
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
