Don Moyes, besides working for Palliative Care, has devoted much of his life to cricket. He is pictured with part of his collection of cricket paraphernalia.MOST of us probably think cricket when we hear Don Moyes’ name, or perhaps recall a little of his humour, especially if at the ‘wrong end of it’.
But there is a serious and sad side to this man that has led him to providing enormous help to cancer sufferers through the South East Palliative Care (SEPC).
SEPC is well enough known for its work in caring for people with the dreaded terminal disease, described by the group as a ‘progressive life-limiting illness’.
Don’s wife, Gwen, was an original member of SEPC and worked as a volunteer coordinator for the palliative care service.
She became a pastoral care counsellor in 1988 and focussed her work on meeting the spiritual needs of people near the end of their lives.
Gwen was the first district nurse appointed by the Kooweerup hospital and was one of six Australians to win a bible study award to study in San Antonio, Texas, during the early 1980s.
Ironically, Gwen was diagnosed with cancer and died at home in 1993 in the care of her family and with support from SEPC.
This left a great chasm in Don’s life and he worked through this in part by forming the Gwen Moyes Trust.
He worked tirelessly to gain support for the trust with SEPC as the sole beneficiary.
The trust is now holding $100,000 and represents a massive effort in the memory of Gwen Moyes.
SEPC has re-located at the Cranbourne Integrated Care Centre (CICC) and The Gwen Moyes Room has been established in the building.
This means that her dedication to helping others has been remembered, honoured and continued.
The room was established to be a place of counsel for people struggling through the most difficult of times.
CICC chief executive Mark Cockayne said Mr Moyes’ commitment to the palliative care service went beyond the trust.
“He often donates items for fund-raising auctions at special events and extends his links within the business world to benefit SEPC,” he said.
There are many families in the district who will remember Gwen Moyes because of the care she gave.
