AUBURN – Someone who normally puts others first is receiving help and support in Auburn as the community rallies around her following her cancer diagnosis.
An event raising funds for Torbrook resident Roberta States, 56, known to all as Robin, was held August 19 at the Aylesford & District Lions Club and attended by dozens of community members looking to offer their support following her diagnosis.
The event was organized by States’ longtime friend Theresa Hirtle, along with other family and friends, after it became obvious States’ health had declining sharply.
“She started losing weight. As the months progressed, she started getting weaker, getting to the point where she could no longer work,” says Hirtle.
“She was really sick, and we all said to ourselves that something’s got to give or take here.”
Hirtle says States continued working for months before taking leave due to her failing health.
After several medical appointments and tests, doctors confirmed in late July that States has lung cancer. States will undergo more tests this week to receive more specific information regarding her diagnosis.
As preparations for travel to Halifax for tests and appointments began, Hirtle asked States if she’d be comfortable with a fundraiser organized to help cover costs associated with the travel and time away from work.
States said yes – “she’s not one to normally accept help,” says Hirtle – and while not able to physically attend the event, feels very humbled by the support she’s receiving.
The event featured a garage sale and silent auction with more than 100 items donated by many community businesses, and has already raised a significant amount for States.
States is a familiar face to many who shop at the Dollarama in Greenwood, where she works, and is known as a “sweet lady who always smiles,” says Hirtle, who noted many of States’ colleagues and customers among those attending the fundraiser. The stores’ management and owners also helped raise awareness and funds for the event.
States’ sister, Lisa Malley, was also at the fundraiser, and says the help means so much to her sister, and their family.
“She puts everybody else first before herself – she’s always been that way. So today means a lot, considering that,” she says.
Hirtle says she’s happy to see the support that’s rolled in for States as she takes her diagnosis “day by day.”
Anyone who’d like to donate can still do so by emailing Hirtle at [email protected]
“It’s amazing how well the community can come together, especially at a time like this,” she says Hirtle.
