The Hunter Melanoma Foundation (HMF) recently celebrated 35 years of being a registered charity.
To acknowledge this significant milestone, the foundation hosted a celebratory lunch with Australian Media Personality and Skin Cancer Advocate, Deborah Hutton as the special guest.
HMF Executive Officer, Claudia Tolhurst said the power of Deborah Hutton’s story was felt throughout the room.
“To hear from someone as recognisable as Deb about her first-hand experience with skin cancer and reiterating the importance of early detection and protection was invaluable to our local community,” Claudia said.
“We are extremely grateful for Deb and the support she provided in helping celebrate the Foundation’s 35-year lunch.”
Over the past 35 years, HMF has supported research, education and advocacy efforts to prevent and detect melanoma in the Hunter region.
The Foundation has also provided physical and emotional support to melanoma patients and their families.
“None of this however would’ve been possible without the support of our local community,” Claudia said.
“Through donations, memberships, bequests, local and business grants, and fundraising efforts the Foundation has continued to be On the Spot in the Hunter since 1986.”
During the summer, HMF held their Spot Check campaign, offering beachgoers a free skin check.
The 2022/23 campaign saw 401 free skin checks performed, 113 of which were suspicious spots and 19 suspected melanomas.
“We are extremely proud of the lifesaving work we do within the local community. Whilst we still have a lot more work to do, it has been very nostalgic looking back on the past 35 years and how far we have come,” Claudia said.
HMF’s mission remains steadfast as they continue to work towards a region where no one has to suffer from this horrible disease.
The Foundation is committed to continuing its efforts to raise awareness and education, support research, and help those affected by melanoma in the community.
HMF 35-year birthday lunch with special guest Deborah Hutton was proudly supported by Newcastle Financial Planning Group, Mint Business Centre, Evans & Wislang Solicitors, Quarry Mining, Jenkins Legal and Aspire Plastic Surgery.
IMAGE | HMF Executive Officer, Claudia Tolhurst and Australia Media Personality, Deborah Hutton
