Budgewoi Soccer Club has raised more than $26,000 for the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse at its Eddy Baty Bash fundraiser held early this month and attended by around 400 people.
Along-time club member, Baty was diagnosed with a BCC skin cancer in 2011 and is now cancer free following two medical trials and nine operations.
“In 2011 I noticed a sore on the back of my neck and decided I should get it looked at,” he said.
“I had been a surfie and a plumber by trade and when I was younger we didn’t have all the rules and regulations (surrounding sun care).
“I was diagnosed with a BCC and undertook a two-year medical trial.
“That worked for a while, but more cancer grew on my ear and another medical trial followed.”
Over the past 10 years Baty has had nine operations and has lost an eye, an ear, half his jaw and half his nose.
Now, cancer free and with a new prosthetic eye and new teeth, he is urging everyone to have regular skin checks.
“I decided I wanted to buy a coffee machine for the Lifehouse because the staff here are so wonderful,” he said.
“Someone suggested I try to raise more money so I contacted the Lifehouse and set up an official fundraising page.
“The results from the soccer club fundraiser were amazing.”
Baty, a former player for the club, helped build the new clubhouse in 1985 and has been a staunch member ever since.
He is continuing his fundraising efforts with the support of the club and the Wyong Leagues Group through next year and donations can be made at https://donate.mylifehouse.org.au/sponsor-general.
Terry Collins