Rosey outlook for Riverland couple.
Riverland couple Charlene and Bill Santos had a tough year in 2014 – enduring a double diagnosis of breast cancer in April followed by prostate cancer in October.
Thankfully the pair survived their battles and are now fighting fit, enjoying life on their idyllic riverfront property and spending time with their four children and six grandchildren.
They are grateful for the excellent treatment they received and have generously held fundraisers to support both prostate cancer and breast cancer research.
For the past two years, they have held an ‘open garden’ as part of the Riverland Rose Festival, which sees thousands of visitors flock to the region over 10 days in October.
“People come from all over Australia for the festival and the community gets right behind it,” Charlene said.
Their home in Berri has a large sprawling garden with stunning river views. It has established trees, lawn, roses, natives and a cottage garden with an adjoining orchard consisting of a variety of fruit and citrus trees.
“Last year we asked for a $2 donation from all the visitors, plus we were also selling apricot and fig jams and plants.
“All the proceeds went to prostate cancer research in support of my husband. The year before we raised money for breast cancer.”
Charlene and Bill’s efforts raised a fantastic $1,821 for APC!
The funds will go towards progressing much-needed research on the prevention, detection, management and treatment of prostate cancer.
“Recently our eldest son had his own battle with prostate cancer and he had to have his prostate removed,” Charlene said.
“He’s doing ok now but it really goes to show the hereditary nature of it.
“It makes me even more determined to find a cure and make sure there’s a better outlook for our grandkids.”
If you would like to learn more about fundraising for APC, call us on (08) 8243 1101!