By Laura Michell
For more than 20 years, Josie Minniti has been dedicated to raising money for The Northern Hospital.
Over the years, the Epping resident has raised more than $500,000, with most of the money going to the hospital’s day oncology unit.
The money is raised through annual dinner dances run by Mrs Minniti’s charity, Josie Minniti and the Fun Group.
The next event will be on Saturday, June 29.
“Raising money for cancer is always very important – I started because we had a lot of cancer in our family,” she said. “It is a worthy cause and you can make a difference.
“The equipment [we donate] provides comfort to cancer patients while they’re undergoing their treatment … you see the look on their faces and the tranquillity.”
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Mrs Minniti said she was grateful for the community support of her organisation’s efforts over the past 23 years.
“If you can donate a little bit of time or organise any sort of fundraising, you are helping to make a real difference,” she said.
Northern Health day oncology nurse unit manager Melissa Gwynne said that among the items Josie Minniti and the Fun Group had raised money for over the years were treatment chairs, a prostate cancer scanner and blanket warmers, as well as the refurbishment of a room in the children’s ward.
“[Mrs Minniti’s] tireless fundraising efforts ensure our oncology patients receive a high standard of care and feel comfortable and less anxious during their stay,” Ms Gwynne said.
The Josie Minniti and the Fun Group dinner dance will be held at Ferraro Reception and Function Centre in Campbellfield.
To buy tickets, contact Mrs Minniti on 9401 4199.
