Owen community rallies to raise awareness for bowel cancer prevention and early detection.

After experiencing unimaginable loss, Joy and David Woodroofe have turned their grief into powerful action for others.

After losing their son Paul to brain cancer in 2001 at just 20 years old, and later their son Kym to bowel cancer in 2017 at just 37, Joy and David have dedicated themselves to raising awareness and making a difference for families impacted by cancer.

Last month, Joy and David Woodroofe hosted a beautiful afternoon tea fundraiser in Owen, a small rural town approximately 100km north of Adelaide on the Adelaide Plains, bringing together 35 wonderful attendees in a warm and welcoming community hall.

The afternoon was filled with connection, heartfelt moments and an incredible spread of savoury and sweet treats, generously donated by the ladies from the Owen Women’s Christian Fellowship.

From a video highlighting the impact of the Foundation and few songs performed by Joy, accompanied by David on the keyboard, it was an afternoon that touched hearts and reminded everyone why this cause matters so deeply to the Woodroofe’s and why raising awareness for early onset bowel cancer is so important.

Together, the afternoon tea raised $1,230.50 for the Foundation.

Joy and David’s commitment to making a difference extends far beyond this special afternoon. To raise important awareness for bowel cancer and brain cancer, and as a way to honour their son’s Kym and Paul, Joy and David undertook the unforgettable “Happy Chappy” Motorbike Ride back in 2017 – riding their Harley Softail Deluxe on a three-month anticlockwise journey around Australia. Their ride raised an incredible $51,000 for the Foundation and sparked many important awareness conversations across the country.

Thank you, Joy and David for all that you do, and to everyone who supported this special afternoon tea. Your impact truly matters and your strength, resilience and generosity continue to inspire us all.