By Deanne Jeffers
YOU don’t have to tell Tatura local Jenny Lagozzino that when it comes to fighting cancer, every bit of support helps. A cancer survivor herself, Jenny has dedicated over 10 years to raising funds and awareness for the Leukaemia Foundation, surpassing the $100,000 milestone in contributions.
So, it’s no surprise that when the production team of the award-winning TV series, Adventure All Stars was looking for an incredible Australian fundraiser, Jenny’s name was put forward.
Jenny is the first participant from country Victoria to join the show, which wrapped up filming Season 5 in June. To take part, all cast members must raise at least $10,000 for a charity of their choice. Jenny aimed to raise $10,000 in 100 days for Myeloma Cancer, inspired by Tatura dairy farmer Trevor Eberle, who was diagnosed with the incurable disease in 2019.
Jenny said that filming the TV show was a rollercoaster of emotions. “I felt very nervous and unsure of myself – raising the money was the easy part for me,” she said. “It’s very refreshing to see a reality TV show where attention-seeking wannabes are not the centre of attention, but instead you see a loving, kind, caring group of selfless philanthropists just doing what they can to support the charity that touches their heart.”
During filming, Jenny was presented with the coveted gold jacket on the third night, showcasing her efforts. She has also been invited to participate in Adventure All Stars’ ‘Legends Series’, which means another fundraising target and an opportunity to demonstrate her drive to make a difference.
“This time around I’m raising money for Brain Cancer Awareness and Research in honour of local Taturian, Jeff Trevaskis,” Jenny said. Jeff, sadly, succumbed to his illness in June. “This has made my commitment to raise $10,000 in 100 days so much stronger, to do this for Jeff. I’m now participating in the ‘Legend Series’ in Jeff’s memory and to raise what I can for others battling these life-stealing diseases.”
With filming beginning in November, Jenny is racing to raise the $10k to support her legendary fundraising opportunity. She is calling on businesses to sponsor her fundraiser and locals to get involved with raffles and her fundraiser event, ‘Fork Cancer this July’.
Scheduled for Saturday, July 27, from 6pm, Fork Cancer this July will be held at Lagozzino’s Top Pub. Tickets are $35 per person, including a two-course meal, lucky door prize entry, and a surprise gift.
For more information, or to support Jenny, go to www.facebook.com/TaturaTopPub or call into Lagazzino’s Top Pub, with new bingo sessions coming to Monday nights to raise the funds needed.
