Support for life saving operation

HELEN Pike, Cathie Evans and Sue Sharpe were three strangers who have now united in a common cause. Each of these women read the story of Proserpine resident Shane Sayers in last week's Whitsunday Times and decided they had to help.

Mr Sayers, a 38-year-old father, was diagnosed with a brain tumor late last year. His family are seeking help from the community to raise $60,000 for surgery that could potentially save his life. The Sayers' have a commitment from renowned neurosurgeon Dr Charles Teo who has agreed to perform the operation they so desperately need but can only do so within the private health sector and at considerable cost. Linda Sayers told the Whitsunday Times last week she had never organised a fundraiser in her life.

"I don't even know where to start," she said.

Enter Cathie Evans who has experience in event management and promotional work. Ms Evans contacted the Sayers to offer her services and in just one week she has organised a charity auction night for May 19 with the help of the Reef Gateway Hotel. But this is just the start.

"Call me before I call you," was her message to the community and local business houses.

Helen Pike and Sue Sharpe also came forward last week, both donating goods and services from their respective businesses in order to assist.

Mrs Sayers said in the past week there were many more people who had put their hands in their pockets to help.

"It's so hard to name everybody individually but I just want to say a big "thank you" to everybody in the community and all the businesses who have donated prizes and cash," she said.

"And a big thank you to the Reef Gateway Hotel because they're the guys who are allowing us to do the auction night - and Cathie - she's doing a brilliant job."

For more information or to make a donation phone Cathie Evans on 0407 792 723.