A local philanthropist, along with a group of like-minded local businessmen, have thrown his support behind the recently opened Dot’s Place Cancer Support Centre with a generous donation.
Local businessman John Perry handed over a $50,000 cheque on behalf of Madora Bay Partnership for Dot’s Place to Cancer Council WA support services director Sandy McKiernan today.
Mr Perry said he was pleased to add to the very generous donation of Dorothy Smith in providing Dot’s Place, which he considered a long overdue addition to the Peel Region’s support infrastructure for cancer patients.
The issues facing cancer patients have been close to home for Mr Perry after losing his father in law to cancer earlier this year.
“Dot’s Place is something that Mandurah, and the wider area, has been crying out for for many, many years,” Mr Perry said.
“A place where people can feel comfortable while receiving the support they need.
“This facility will assist many residents at a difficult time in their lives and I’d encourage others to provide physical and financial assistance for this very worthy cause.”
Ms McKiernan expressed sincere appreciation for Mr Perry’s donation which she said will help fund services and programs at the Centre.
“As a community-funded organisation, we rely on the generosity of our volunteers, supporters and generous donors like Mr Perry in order to provide these first class services such as those on offer at Dot’s Place,” she said.
The Dot’s Place Peel Cancer Support Centre, which is designed to offer clients a more holistic service than traditional clinics and specialists, was officially opened last month.
Ms McKiernan and Cancer Council staff said the response from people visiting the Centre has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Clients and guests who visit the Centre remark on how calm, relaxing and beautiful the house and gardens are,” said Ms McKiernan.
“They comment on the ‘feel’ of the Centre and love the welcoming atmosphere, so we’re delighted to hear we are making a difference at a difficult time in many peoples lives even in the early stages of opening the doors at Dot’s Place Peel.
“The services we offer here have really taken off in that time – things like the Wig Service have already made really profound effects in a lot of people’s lives.”
Cancer Council staff at the Centre can offer reliable, evidence-based information to anyone affected by cancer as well as a range of practical support services including a free ‘transport to treatment’ shuttle service and a peer support program.
“Already the shuttle service has been a big success, it’s something that’s really needed and something which has really proven how this place works,” Ms McKiernan said.
Dot’s Place is located at 34 Victoria Circle, Greenfields.
For more information about any of the services available at Dot’s Place, call (08) 6369 7830 or the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.