For long-term Australia's Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser Marian Byfield, the inspiration for her extraordinary fundraising efforts is close to home.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
"My husband Don is the inspiration for my fundraising," Marian said.
"He has undergone the most horrific surgery for non-melanoma skin cancers over the past 15 years which has resulted in a number of near-death experiences."
Marian has raised more than $30,000 for Cancer Council as a Biggest Morning Tea host over the past 12 years and says her experience with the services offered by them has driven her commitment to fundraising.
She recalls speaking with Cancer Council's information and support line during what was a tremendously difficult time for them both.
"I'm so glad I made those calls," she said.
It's great to see everyone coming together for such an important cause.
- Marian Byfield
"I always found there was a lovely, calming person (cancer nurse) on the other end of the phone who helped rationalise things for me."
Marian also accessed the Cancer Council's counselling service to help develop the skills to cope with the extreme stress of Don's illness.
Even with the ongoing health issues he has faced, Marian said Don has continued to help her host her Biggest Morning Tea event.
"He is an inspiration to me and he has always been a big part of our fundraising efforts, particularly running the auction at the event," she said.
After many debilitating surgeries and rounds of radiation, Don was placed on a drug trial and is now experiencing remarkable results.
But then, in February last year when all seemed to be going well for the couple, they received more devastating news. Marian was diagnosed with advanced uterine cancer.
"We were just getting a bit of normality back into our lives when I received the news of my diagnosis," Marian said.
"I went from Don's carer to patient and it was frightening how quickly our roles reversed."
Despite her diagnosis and surgery which yielded many complications, Marian is determined to go ahead with her Biggest Morning Tea again this year.
"I'm very lucky to have such wonderful support in Don and the ladies committee with lots of willing helpers," she said.
"The community spirit is just amazing and it's great to see everyone coming together for such an important cause."
"I thank God for every day and we are both still enjoying life and each other."
"Just make the most of this wonderful life we have been given."
By hosting a morning tea you can help people like Marian and Don make a difference in the fight against cancer.
To register your event go to www.biggestmorningtea.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85 for more information.