On Sunday, 22 March, 2009 Mrs. Yvonne Van Ryn , a breast cancer survivor of 12 years, held her Tenth Annual Celebration of Life Luncheon at The Blue Parrott Cafe in Cronulla. Sixty friends and family were in attendance and it was an afternoon of laughter, fun and remembrance. A sumptuous 3 course lunch with wine was served and an Auction and Raffle were held with prizes being donated by friends and the Cronulla small business community. Sue Ellen of Eclectic Home and Garden in Cronulla gives year long support by taking donations throughout the year for her free gift wrapping services.

A highlight is always the reading of Edward Castle's poem which he writes each year especially for the luncheon. He writes eloquently of courage and hope and survival.

Yvonne Van Ryn and her mother Marian Keane

What started a decade ago as a Birthday Celebration for a breast cancer survivor has grown into a major fundraising event to fight breast cancer and raise awareness with the Tenth Annual Celebration of Life Luncheon this year raising $15,000 for the NSW Breast Cancer Institute.

The first luncheon began as a small group of virtual strangers and has grown into a family of friendships.

Suzanne Denny and her first grandchild Isla

Those who are unable to attend each year make their presence felt by continuing to support and send donations from as far away as South Australia, Queensland, United Kingdom, Holland and the USA.