The Ladies Who Lunch Committee has committed $100,000 to the GV Health Foundation’s I Care for Cancer Care Appeal. The contribution marks a significant step forward for the appeal, which aims to raise $5 million to support the establishment of an Integrated Cancer Centre at GV Health. With the Ladies Who Lunch commitment, total pledges to the appeal now stand at $1.54 million.

The announcement was made on 25 October at the annual Ladies Who Lunch event, which raises funds to support women’s oncology services at GV Health.

Funds contributing to the $100,000 commitment were raised through ticket sales, auction proceeds, raffle ticket sales and merchandise purchases, made possible by the generosity of attendees, sponsors and donors.
While the Ladies Who Lunch Committee is still finalising this year’s fundraising total, it can confirm the event has exceeded last year’s outstanding result of $185,000.

GV Health Foundation Board Chair Stephen Merrylees said the contribution demonstrated the extraordinary impact local people can have when they rally behind an important cause.

“Reaching more than $1.5 million for the I Care for Cancer Care appeal is an incredible achievement and one that belongs to our community,” Mr Merrylees said.

“The Ladies Who Lunch Committee has once again shown what can be accomplished through dedication, generosity and a genuine commitment to improving cancer care for local patients and families. We are deeply grateful for their ongoing support and the generosity of every person who contributed.”

Ladies Who Lunch Committee Co-chair Raathika Saranathan said the committee was proud to continue supporting women’s oncology services at GV Health.

“Ladies Who Lunch is about bringing our community together to make a meaningful difference for women facing cancer,” Ms Saranathan said.

“To be able to commit $100,000 to the I Care for Cancer Care Appeal is something we are incredibly proud of. This achievement would not be possible without our attendees, sponsors, donors, volunteers and supporters, who continue to embrace the spirit of giving that makes this event so special.”

GV Health Foundation Director Amy De Paola said the contribution would help strengthen cancer care services across the region.

“Since its inception, Ladies Who Lunch has helped fund a range of initiatives at GV Health, including innovative cancer treatment equipment and support services that improve the experience of local patients,” Ms De Paola said.

“This latest commitment is another remarkable example of what can be achieved when a community comes together behind a shared vision. Every dollar raised will help ensure local people can access high-quality cancer treatment, technology and support services closer to home when they need it most.”

While Victoria has six designated Regional Public Health Services. GV Health is the only service without an Integrated Cancer Centre.

The proposed centre will bring cancer treatment, support services and specialist care together under one roof, improving the experience of patients and families and enabling people to access the care they need, closer to home.