What began as an offhand remark has led to a group of doctors, nurses, support staff and consumers taking an icy plunge into Port Phillip Bay in an effort to raise funds for Peninsula Health’s Take a Break for Cancer appeal.
Nine keen dippers made the mad dash into the water on Thursday 22August. Among them, Barb Cass, Nurse Unit Manager of Peninsula Health’s Palliative Care Unit, who was behind the idea.
“When I mentioned to other colleagues I was doing this to help raise funds for Take a Break for Cancer, quite a few said they wanted to do it too,” says Barb.
“Working in palliative care means we often see people at the end of their cancer journey,” shares Barb. “We see their struggles, so if this is one way to raise funds to detect prostate cancer early so it can be treated, then it’s worth the icy plunge.”
“People often ask why I work in palliative care, well to me it’s so rewarding being able to help people achieve their goals during that stage of life.”
“If we can focus on the quality of life for people who unfortunately have a cancer diagnosis then that’s a good thing.”
“It’s wonderful to see everyone come out and join me, it makes me feel so warm inside, I’m so grateful to have the support of this wonderful team.”
Peninsula Health’s Take a Break for Cancer fundraiser calls on the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula community to pause and reflect on the impact of cancer, one of the most common diseases and major health problems in Australia today.
You too can sign up to Take a Break for Cancer at www.takeabreakforcancer.org.au
Support Barb and the team’s icy plunge here: https://takeabreakforcancer.org.au/t/barbcasscolddipteam