Disha raises $60,000 for hospitals

Three hospitals to get new equipment thanks to community effort

For the first time in the thirteen years since its launch, the two generations of Disha joined forces to bring a gala event this month. Together they raised funds to support the Alfred and Box Hill Haematology and Oncology units and the Royal Melbourne Hospital Kidney Care unit.

Disha’s Masquerade Ball was held at the RACV City Club with 265 guests in attendance who helped raise over $60,000 that will go towards purchasing vital equipment across the three hospitals.

The Disha community of Melbourne has a long-standing commitment in raising funds for worthwhile causes especially cancer, bringing passionate, like-minded people together to foster involvement in the community. In more recent times the Disha community has grown, uniting two generations for a common cause.

Founded in 2006 this not-for-profit organisation’s broader scope and aim is to establish a positive and collaborative relationship with society. Funds raised by friends and volunteers has supported major hospitals across Melbourne for the purchase of equipment critical in providing care for patients suffering from cancer and mental health disorders.

For this sold-out ball seniors, and youngsters glammed and masked up to enjoy a night filled with glamour, fun and entertainment, coming together with full energy and enthusiasm for a noble cause.

“We are forever grateful to our parents, aunts and uncles for laying the foundation and we hope we can continue on to make an impact, leave a legacy as we grow together for generations to come,” said a young member of Disha committee.

Guests at the masquerade were welcomed with a pianist in the foyer and butterflies on stilts. For entertainment they enjoyed Lalita Luna’s spectacular fire show and a DJ.

Guest speakers from Box Hill Hospital and the Royal Melbourne Hospital briefly touched upon the need for the patient care equipment and its benefits and conveyed their sincere appreciation for the Disha community’s generosity.

The funds raised will be presented to The Royal Melbourne Hospital for Replacement Dialysis chairs and ultrasound machine for use in patients post kidney transplant. The Box Hill Hospital will utilise it for a Citadel ICU bed and The Alfred will purchase 4 eTQC machines worth $4,800 each.

“Disha is nothing without the support and backing of our connected community that we are so lucky to have. An event like this would be impossible without our major sponsors and supporters,” said a member on behalf of the Disha committee.

The attention to detail at the event was visible throughout the night from the tasteful décor to the carefully selected menu. Months of planning by the Disha family finally came to fruition offering a spectacular and memorable evening.