Put on your dancing shoes and support our cancer services here at Northern Health.

Long-time Northern Health Foundation Patron, Josie Minniti’s annual Dinner Dance Cancer Fundraiser is on Saturday, 31 July, at the Ferraro Reception Centre, 14 Onslow Avenue, Campbellfield.

The event, which has been running for 25 years, 13 years of those for Northern Health, raises money for vital equipment in our Oncology Unit, so cancer patients are comfortable while they are receiving treatment.

Josie Minniti said the event promises to be a fun-filled evening.

“The guests can expect a fun-filled evening with lots of food, drinks, dancing, followed by live auction, raffles and silent auctions We want people to have a really good night,” she said.

Josie is hoping to raise $10,000, going towards cancer services, including purchasing two new wheelchairs for our Day Oncology Unit.

“Whatever we raise, it’s something that the hospital wouldn’t have. I am very passionate about this cause. The money always goes to purchasing new equipment for cancer patients because, to me, comfort is very important for their quality of life. Patients need to be comfortable whilst undergoing treatment,” Josie said.

Pina Di Donato, Director Northern Health Foundation, said, “We are extremely grateful for the support and dedication of longtime Northern Health Foundation Patron, Josie Minniti, in helping to raise much needed funds for our Day Oncology Unit. The amazing support of people like Josie and her family, whose previous dinner dances have helped us purchase important equipment, makes a real difference to our cancer patients at Northern Health,” Pina said.

Melissa Gwynne, Nurse Unit Manager, Day Oncology, said the new wheelchairs will assist in the transportation of patients to other departments within Northern Hospital Epping, and will provide assistance to those unable to walk from the hospital’s front entrance to the unit.

“The money raised through Josie’s Dinner Dances has always contributed to purchasing equipment for our cancer patients, including scalp cooling machines, treatment chairs and a blanket warmer,” Melissa said.

“The Dinner Dance is always a fun-filled night with music, dancing and great items for auction. I cannot express my gratitude enough for her commitment to continue to raise much needed funds for our cancer service.”

Josie is encouraging people who can’t attend the night, but still want to support the cause, to instead donate.

“It will be greatly appreciated. Every cent will go towards what we are striving for,” she said

“I hear many stories from patients. I meet up with people who use the equipment and they are grateful, firstly for the doctors and nurses, and secondly, for the comfort experience whilst combating this horrible disease. Each and every one of us can make a difference. If you come along to the Dinner Dance, hopefully we can make more of a difference.”

Tickets cost $60 for adults and $25 for children. Ticket includes a seven course meal and drinks.

To purchase tickets and for more information, contact Josie and Rino Minniti on 9401 4199 or 0409 400 855.

Featured Image: Whittlesea Leader (taken prior to COVID-19)
Left to right: Josie Minniti, Clancy (Northern Health patient) and Melissa Gwynne