10 November 2016
Sell out Soiree to launch new Charitable Trust
The recently established White Matter Brain Cancer Trust was officially launched in Christchurch on Saturday night by
the Hon. Bill English at a special white bow tie fundraising event. The aim of the new trust is to enhance the quality
of life of brain cancer sufferers and support them and their families by way of financial assistance.
The Tait Technology Centre was the venue for the sell-out fundraiser which saw numerous special guests in attendance
including Sir Richard Hadlee, along with Tony and Kathleen White whose late son, Andrew White, the Trust is named after.
The event was a sophisticated evening of fine food, entertainment and heart-warming generosity.
James Worthington, Chair of the Trust, gave a sobering opening address which highlighted some little-known facts about
this disease. Brain cancer kills more people under 40 than any other cancer and more children than any other disease.
Little is known on the cause or how to treat it.
The evening commenced with a formal presentation to the Trust’s inaugural funding recipients. 4th year medical student
Megan de Lambert was awarded funding to complete her research for the Otago University Summer Studentship Project -
“Patterns of care for Glioma patients in Canterbury- a decade of care”. Dr Melissa James accepted the award on Megan’s
behalf.
Jonathan Densem whose story featured in the media recently will also receive support to help him achieve a
professionally recorded album of his own compositions while he remains well. Jonathan is a singer, songwriter, actor,
teacher and family man. He has inoperable brain cancer and sadly, like many brain cancer sufferers, he has a poor
prognosis. Following the presentation, Jonathan entertained guests with a moving solo performance.
This inaugural dinner with charity auction and donation pledges exceeded all expectations raising more than $104,000 for
the Trust.
“We were thrilled with the overwhelming personal and financial support for the Trust from our guests”, said James
Worthington, Chairman of the White Matter Brain Cancer Trust. “The event was the first of what will no doubt be many
fundraising initiatives to increase awareness and raise financial support for brain cancer sufferers and their
families.”
“The success of the event was enhanced by the support of sponsors including the Tait Technology Centre, Northlands Pak’n
Save and 360 Degree Events” said Karen Hamilton, Managing Director of 360 Degree Events, event managers. “The Soiree
auction included unique experiences, holiday packages, jewellery and artwork. Harcourts Grenadier Auctioneer, Ned
Allison was energetic and entertaining in his efforts to sell off the items”.
The trust will consider funding any activity that will assist and enhance the quality of life for brain cancer patients
and their families. This may involve respite care assistance, making a family holiday possible or helping make a wish
come true.
To find out more about the trust or to make a donation visit www.whitematterbraincancertrust.nz.
Ends.