Let’s Hula for Prostate Cancer
Epsom Village is proudly participating in Blue September, an annual awareness campaign aimed at raising funds and increasing awareness about prostate cancer in New Zealand. The campaign focuses on educating men and the wider community about the importance of early detection, supporting those affected by the disease, and encouraging conversations around men's health.
The highlight of the month was Thursday's Hawaiian party, featuring a lively hula dance and music performance. The show was led by Aruna Kekeha Po-Ching, the director of the first officially sanctioned Hawaiian hula school in Aotearoa. Her performance beautifully combined traditional and modern Hawaiian dance, ukulele songs, and, of course, lessons in basic hula movements.
Aruna's mesmerizing voice transported the residents to the warm shores of Hawaii, offering a much-needed escape from a week of rain, strong winds, and hail in Auckland. Her talent was further enhanced by her lovely sense of humor, which had everyone laughing and on their feet, eager to try their hand at hula. Our residents are always enthusiastic about learning new things, and last night was no exception, with some ladies mastering the graceful hula moves with surprising ease.
Earlier this month, the residents attended a talk by the Prostate Cancer Foundation to learn more about the disease, which affects nearly 4,000 men each year. Every dollar raised during Blue September helps enhance the lives of these men and their families, as well as future generations, while ensuring the foundation can continue offering its essential support services.
In an effort to enhance their fundraising, Epsom Village organised an exciting raffle, with tickets available for purchase all month long. One of the highlights of last night’s event was the cocktail competition, where Penny, the village assistant, prepared two crowd-pleasers: the Blue Hawaiian and the Fluffy Duck. The competition drew in a lively crowd, and thanks to the excitement, raffle tickets sold out quickly as residents eagerly supported the cause. Naturally, the Fluffy Duck emerged victorious once again!
The Hawaiian party was not only one of the most popular events on this year’s calendar but also a huge success in terms of fundraising. With a packed lounge and high spirits all around, the village raised over $640 for this worthy cause.
This is yet another example of Epsom Village’s extraordinary mahi, as they continue to go above and beyond in their commitment to making a difference, fostering a strong community spirit, and supporting meaningful causes.
If you’d like to know more about joining our community contact Lyn on 021 845 524 or email Lyn.Ellis@realliving.co.nz
