THE Victorian Senior of the Year Awards recognises older Victorians, who volunteer to assist, support and encourage others in their communities. Burwood’s own Cheryl Webster does us all proud as one of this year’s recipients. Long-time Manager of Burwood Neighbourhood House and a Breast Cancer survivor herself, Cheryl has first-hand knowledge and understanding of the plight of those she helps.
In 2014 she created Knitted Knockers Australia. They create and distribute a light, pure cotton knitted Breast Prosthesis for women to use following mastectomy. The non-profit organisation has made a tremendous difference in the lives of the hundreds (if not thousands) of breast cancer survivors throughout Australia. Pam Parker, who nominated her, was excited to share the news with Cheryl.
The award ceremony, hosted by the Governor of Victoria, Linda Dessau AC, took place on 9 October at Government House. “It was good for us,” says Cheryl. “We are funded only by donations, and KK and breast cancer survivors got publicity when Channel 7 approached us for a story”.
One point Cheryl was keen to make: “Yes, I do run this organisation, but this ‘car’ cannot run without an engine – branch leaders, teams of volunteers involved in the processing and packing of prostheses; fuel is the knitters, and even people who come and offer small helping hands can be called ‘spark plugs’. Although it has my name on it, the award is for the team”. On behalf of all who know you, and many cancer survivors, well done Cheryl! ♦
