The Minnamurra Lions Club presented a $1,000 donation to "The Simple Gift of a Bag," a volunteer organisation that creates specialised bags to aid breast cancer patients in their post-surgical recovery, in a display of community support and generosity. The donation will go a long way in helping this dedicated group continue its mission to assist those facing the challenges of breast cancer surgery.

The Simple Gift of a Bag was born out of a deeply personal experience. Sandra Williams, the coordinator of the organisation, shared the story of her daughter Lauri Fettell, a local 34-year-old wife and mother of two boys. Lauri's life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer nine years ago. As Lauri navigated her journey through breast cancer, a simple act of kindness forever changed her perspective on the recovery process. 

After undergoing a mastectomy, a friend presented Lauri with a handmade fabric over-the-shoulder bag specially designed to hold a drainage bag, preventing it from being dragged around and ensuring it didn't interfere with hospital bed linens. This small gesture had a profound impact on Lauri, inspiring her to create a support network for others undergoing similar experiences.

Lauri’s Dad, Terry Williams gets involved with the project - showing him here cutting out bags at the surf club.

Sandra Williams recounted her daughter's passion, stating, "Everyone who goes through this journey like I have deserves to have their own bag to help them throughout their recovery."

The organisation's initial goal was to donate 100 bags to their local Wollongong Hospital, where Lauri began her journey. Astonishingly, they surpassed this goal in the first year by distributing over 1,000 bags. The volunteer group, which began with just a handful of local friends and family, has now expanded to over 50 volunteers nationwide, producing and distributing more than 25,000 bags to hospitals across Australia with a wide support network.

The Simple Gift of a Bag's mission revolves around the compassion and dedication of their volunteers who strive to make a profound difference in the lives of breast cancer patients. Their primary focus is to provide post-surgical drainage bags to support patients through their recovery journey. Hospitals are free to use them for other patients also.

Sandra Williams and Lauri Fettell expressed immense pride in their dedicated group of volunteers and their commitment to the cause. They emphasised how these volunteers band together to make a real impact on the lives of patients recovering from breast cancer surgery. The cottage industry has been going for nearly a decade! 

Jas from Minnamurra post office who is a wonderful supporter of the Simple gift of a bag

The Minnamurra Lions Club, known for its unwavering commitment to community support, stepped in to assist The Simple Gift of a Bag with a generous donation of $1,000. This contribution is a testament to the Lions Club's commitment to supporting local projects and organizations that make a difference.

The Minnamurra Lions Club is a group of volunteers who dedicate their own time and resources to benefit various local community initiatives. The donation to The Simple Gift of a Bag is just one of many charitable acts the Lions Club undertakes annually.

Material donations are welcome - old doona covers or sheets etc in good condition also can be used

Receiving such a generous donation from the Minnamurra Lions Club is an incredible boon for The Simple Gift of a Bag. Sandra Williams explained that the funds will be allocated toward purchasing approximately 40 extra-large postage bags. Postage costs are a significant part of their volunteer work, making this financial support invaluable.

With the Minnamurra Lions Club's support, The Simple Gift of a Bag can continue their mission of creating post-surgery drainage bags and donating them to hospitals nationwide, easing the recovery process for breast cancer patients.

This is Mara Koplin, volunteer packing the bags ready for posting, she is an absolute asset to the group.

For those interested in volunteering or contributing to this the cause, please contact Sandra Williams at [email protected]. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of breast cancer patients across Australia.

Our daughter as mentioned today is the true inspiration for the group to continue.

Lauri Fettell is taking the selfie shot at the Kiama Downs Surf Club at one of the community workshops.

Here are some random shots at the workshop.

This is Mara Koplin , volunteer packing the bags ready for posting , 

She is an absolute asset to the group.