Ask anyone that knows Brisbane mother Terrie Cetinich what is important in life, and they will unanimously agree that it’s her love of children. Not only has Terrie worked with children with disabilities and in after-school care, she is kept busy with a young family of five.
But when looking after her young family meant she could no longer work, Terrie turned her energies to supporting children through community fundraising for Mater.
“I was home with three babies aged between newborn and 30 months, and needed to do something. I had always worked and was going stir crazy just sitting at home,” Terrie said.
Terrie came up with the idea of Dinner with the Stars—an annual dinner that raises money for neonatal and paediatric research at Mater.
What started off as a small dinner at Sirromet winery has evolved into a major event, raising over $250 000 since the dinner’s humble beginnings in 2007.
This year’s Dinner with the Stars was held at Rydges Hotel on 7 August. With guest appearances by Katie Noonan, the night was a great success.
This event is very personal for Terrie, who dedicates the event to the memory of babies that are stillborn, or have a rough start to life. Sadly, Terrie lost one of her own baby’s to stillbirth, as did one of her dear friends.
“This event is in memory of all the babies that were born sleeping—who we have carried but never met or held in our arms—and their families,” Terrie said.
“It’s also for all the families whose babies were born with a life of undeserving struggles.”
If you would like to find out how you can support Mater by holding a fundraising event in your local area, please contact Mater Foundation on 07 3163 8000.