COMMUNITY spirit was in force at the Cootamundra Ex-Service’s Club on Saturday night to raise money for former police officer Paul Wilcox.
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Diagnosed earlier this year with a rare, inoperable form of cancer, Paul’s pancoast tumour did not respond to chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
He and wife Jennie has been given a beacon of hope though in the form of radiowave therapy, which is currently only offered in Germany and Perth, WA, and is not covered by Medicare.
Needing $12,000 for treatment, Jennie and Paul are happy to announce the Saturday night fundraiser brought in $13,500, which will also help them with the cost of travel and accommodation.
“We are overwhelmed and humbled by the support we’ve received,” Jennie said.
The couple left for Perth on Tuesday and will spent 31 days there, which includes three weeks of treatment for two hours every Monday to Friday.
“We’re hoping for a marked improvement in his pain levels, and about halfway through we’ll know if it’s working on his tumour,” Jennie explained.
“It could be tiring but there’s no nausea like you get with other treatment, so depending on Paul’s health we’ll hopefully be able to enjoy Perth as well.”
Jennie and Paul would like to thank everyone who turned up on the night to support them, including many women Paul helped in his years as the Cootamundra LAC domestic violence officer.
Jennifer Lukins, Rachael Braham, Kamahl Bennett, Jacki Boxall and Scott Sanders were all mentioned in particular for their help in organising fundraisers and assisting the Wilcox’s on their farm and personally.
Jennifer’s aunty was able to supply many of the most popular items in the silent auction, including a signed 2014 Roosters jersey and signed boots from players such as Sonny Bill Williams and Anthony Minichiello.
Paul and Jennie would also like to extend big thanks to CAN Assist for all their help during the initial rounds of treatment.