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EVERY two years, Bendigo-based charity the OTIS Foundation hosts a gala ball to support its national network of breast cancer retreats.
The black tie event at Melbourne’s Crown Palladium raised enough money in 2015 to provide 10,000 nights of accommodation, at no cost, to women dealing with the challenges of breast cancer and their families.
Hopes are high for this year’s event, A Night for Nights.
The OTIS Foundation is expecting more than 1000 people to attend the gala ball, including medical student and former Miss Universe Australia, Olivia Wells.
“I love that this charity focuses on the person – it’s emphasis is not just about treating the disease, but about how it can help people through difficult times,” Miss Wells said.
She has come to appreciate the work OTIS does to help women who have faced a breast cancer diagnosis since being introduced to the foundation earlier this year.
“The OTIS Foundation offers these women, along with their family, a chance to take time away and reconnect, to create special memories together and concentrate on their own emotional well-being,” Miss Wells said.
The former Miss Universe Australia is a volunteer ambassador for the foundation.
OTIS board member Richard Burley said the foundation had grown immensely since it began with two properties in Bendigo some 15 years ago.
“The OTIS Foundation now offers 36 properties in almost every state of Australia, giving an incredible gift of time and space to so many families,” he said.
The charity is a legacy to his sister, Judy Burley, who died in 2000 following a battle with breast cancer.
“Unfortunately, the reality is that for some women, their stay at an OTIS property is the last opportunity for them to spend time with their families and loved ones.” Mr Burley said.
“A Night for Nights is an opportunity to enjoy an incredible evening while also raising important funds to enable the OTIS Foundation to continue expanding its unique service and supporting those affected by breast cancer.”
Author and media personality Angela Pippos will host the event at the Palladium at Crown on November 19.
Entertainers include The Voice Australia winner Harrison Craig, Chloe Maggs and DJ Claire Elliott.
Tickets to the gala ball are $295 and are available online.