Canberra Hospital Foundation chair facing her greatest fear for a greater cause

It’s often in our most vulnerable moments that we discover the depth of our strength.

For Susan Proctor, chair of the Canberra Hospital Foundation Board, that moment came as she watched her dear friend and colleague, Gabry, endure a battle with cancer that, in the end, took her from those who loved her.

Now, driven by a profound sense of purpose, Susan is confronting her greatest fear, heights, as she takes on the Canberra Hospital Foundation’s Big Wig Challenge in Gabry’s memory.

The Big Wig Challenge, a key feature of Canberra Hospital Foundation’s flagship fundraising initiative, CAN GIVE DAY, isn’t just about donning a wild wig or facing personal fears. It’s about something much more: raising funds to support patients, their families, and our healthcare workers across Canberra and the surrounding regions.

The funds raised through this initiative deeply touch the lives of patients and families, providing care, comfort and support when they need it the most.

For Susan, participating in the Big Wig Challenge is a deeply personal mission.

“This year, I’ve decided to put my fear of heights to the back of my mind and take on this challenge. I feel privileged to be able to face my fears head-on, especially when I think of Gabry,” Susan says.

“She had to navigate the maze of appointments, tests, chemo and uncertainty, all while being at her most vulnerable.

“What she endured and fought through is inspiring, and I know I have her by my side in spirit as I take on this tiny challenge in comparison.”

Susan’s connection to Gabry has strengthened her commitment to contribute to the positive health outcomes for our community.

During Gabry’s treatment, the support and care she received made a lasting impression on Susan, highlighting the ongoing impact of the Canberra Hospital Foundation’s generous donors.

“Throughout Gabry’s journey, the additional items provided by Canberra Hospital Foundation became visible to me in a way I would not have otherwise experienced,” Susan says.

“The cup of tea and biscuits from the tea trolleys at chemo, the kind smiles of volunteers offering sustenance, the artwork, the comfy reclining chairs, these seemingly small things provided a distraction and a bit of comfort during such a difficult time.”

Susan’s participation in the Big Wig Challenge on Thursday, 26 September, is a tribute to Gabry’s memory and a way to carry forward her legacy.

“I was hoping that Gabry would be cheering me on from outside the hospital with this challenge, but unfortunately, she lost her fight with cancer last month,” Susan says.

“So, I do this for Gabry, to put into effect her legacy. Her last months’ experiences have informed what else we can do – and we can always do more, especially with the support of the community.”

Facing her fear of heights is no small feat, and Susan has taken steps to prepare herself mentally and emotionally.

“I’ve done some rock climbing and abseiling practice so I could have an idea of what to expect,” she says.

“We can improve the experience of our family, friends, and community members who rely on these services. Every contribution counts.”

Kerri Hartland, another dedicated Canberra Hospital Foundation board member, has also stepped up to take on the Big Wig Challenge, inspired by the resilience and strength of the frontline workers in the healthcare community she passionately supports.

Kerri encourages those who might be inspired to join the Big Wig Challenge themselves to take the leap, “What could be better than leaping off a tall building to support those needing help in our community?” Kerri says.

Canberra Hospital Foundation is calling on all Canberrans to rally behind Kerri, Susan and the other brave Big Wig participants to support our patients and the dedicated healthcare workers who care for them. You can donate to their campaigns or CAN GIVE DAY via the Canberra Hospital Foundation.

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