Each month a different staff member of SNDYS is given the opportunity to pick a charity of their choice, one that is close to their heart, and we will be donating $1 from every sale to that chosen charity. This month, Takoda, our Design and Warehouse Assistant, has selected the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation as her charity of choice. She has graciously shared the personal significance of this organisation, shedding light on why it holds such profound meaning for her.
Could you please give some background information into why you chose ACCF as your charity for August?
I chose the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation as my mum was diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer, and had to undergo various treatments and surgeries. Through donating to ACCF I hope to increase public awareness about cervical cancer prevention, early detection and various treatment options.
How did you and your Mum stay positive and motivated throughout the treatment journey?
Throughout the treatment process it was important that we surrounded mum with all her loved ones who could offer words of encouragement and support. We tried to keep all our routines as normal as possible which was challenging but important so the cancer was not the focus of our lives.
Can you describe any significant changes in your perspective or priorities after going through this experience?
We try not to focus on small things in life that do not really matter any more as we know that life can change instantly. We are constantly striving to understand and educate ourselves not only on cervical cancer signs and symptoms but in our overall health in general, like regular skin checks and mental health for example.
What led you to choose the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation (ACCF) as the charity for SNDYS’ donations this month?
The reason I chose ACCF was because they are an Australian organisation that provides support for all individuals impacted by cervical abnormalities and cancer of the cervix. The ACCF also enhances awareness and education for young high-school students and families affected by cervical cancer, through their programs and campaigns they help people access the protection and education they need for their cervical health.
What impact do you hope your donations will have through ACCF's efforts?
I hope that our donations can provide the resources for cervical cancer screenings and HPV vaccinations where access may be limited. I hope to enhance knowledge and awareness for the younger generation to make sure they are having screenings and to help any families who may not have the support or family to help them if they are undergoing cervical cancer treatments.
About the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation (ACCF)
Since 2007, the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation (ACCF) is the only consumer-focused cancer charity in Australia dedicated exclusively to prevent cervical cancer and to support all individuals impacted by a cancer in cervix and cervical abnormalities. They create community awareness and education on HPV, cervical health, and cervical cancer to improve health outcomes for women and people with a cervix.
