Zeal for Teal, a fundraiser for the Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope, welcomed over 100 women to the PMD Arena here on April 28.
Local scrapbookers and crafters joined participants from as far away as Burlington and Wiarton at the annual event. They managed to raise a total of $4,000 for the Walk of Hope.
The theme for the day was the Wild West, as straw bales, western decor and a superb backdrop – expertly designed, created and constructed by Ann Latham of Drayton – lent atmosphere to the day.
Amber Tuck, local Royal Bank manager and Zeal for Teal committee member, said she gets involved to help raise awareness about cancer.
“We have all been touched by cancer in some way; it is a brutal fact that we cannot hide from,” said Tuck. “People we love are getting the diagnosis, it seems, more frequently.”
Zeal for Teal participants were treated to theme-related beverages and food prepared by Ann Kabbes and Yvonne Timmerman. Various donated door prizes were awarded and Vickie Downey pampered guests by offering mini-manicures. The event also offered games, activities, photo booth, general store and vendors.
Dana Maher Downey, former Drayton resident and veteran Zeal for Teal participant, received special recognition for inviting 18 people to join her at this year’s event.
Chairpersons Amanda Newton and ovarian cancer survivor Glynis Belec were thrilled with the response of participants and were overwhelmed with the donations to their silent auction and penny table.
“We always try to make this a special day for our ladies,” said Belec. “And we think we have once again done this according to the evaluation sheets and feedback received so far.”
Newton, who had the idea for Zeal for Teal when her mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2008, was happy with the outcome.
“Four thousand dollars is what we are able to give to the Walk of Hope,” said Newton, adding that far exceeded her expectations.
“I am so happy we had a successful event again and that we were able to raise these funds for Ovarian Cancer Canada. Four years ago when we started this, we had no idea we would get this big.”
