Sister-in-Laws unite in grief to create sellout Mother’s Day event

Melanie Barone and her late mother Maria Snell.

Local sister-in-laws Melanie and Maritza Barone are set to host a sellout Mother’s Day Ladies Luncheon for 130 local women at Pier 33 to honour mothers and women while supporting Bloomhill Cancer Care on 10 May. 

The inspiration behind the event stems from Melanie’s personal journey having lost her mother Maria to cancer just over a year ago.

Melanie said she watched as her mum delved into a spectrum of treatments, ranging from conventional oncology and radiation, but also the important complementary therapies which kept her comfortable during her journey.

“It was the complementary treatments and allied health professionals that particularly gave her much needed relief while she bravely fought her cancer,” Melanie said.

“This is why we have chosen to dedicate a newly created event, the Bloomed Mother’s Day Ladies Luncheon to Bloomhill Cancer Care.

“Bloomhill resonates deeply with us, as it tirelessly supports locals who are navigating the complexities of a cancer diagnosis.  We know first-hand how important these services are to those undergoing treatment and raising funds is our way of acknowledging the great work they undertake in our community.”

Maritza said an event like this is no easy feat to pull off, and the overwhelming support from the Sunshine Coast community and prominent businesses has been remarkable.

“Everyone knows somebody who has been touched by cancer and we know the Sunshine Coast is a very giving community so It has been incredible to witness the collective effort that has brought this event to fruition. All the tickets are now sold so we look forward to a great day celebrating all the women in our lives,” Maritza said. 

Holly Hale, general manager of Bloomhill shared her heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of support for the inaugural event.

“We are profoundly grateful to see people within our community rallying behind Bloomhill Cancer Care. Special events such as this help us educate people about the important services available at Bloomhill for those impacted by cancer while raising essential funds to support our nursing and therapy services, as well as take the time to say thank you to the community who support us,” she said. 

The Bloomed Mother’s Day Ladies Luncheon promises to be a day of celebration, honouring life and the resilience of those who have faced or are currently navigating the cancer journey.

Members of the community are encouraged to contribute to Bloomhill Cancer Care’s mission by donating through their website: fundraising.bloomhill.com.au