Editorial: Women who are helping others

GOOD DEED: Fashion for Families creator Julie Bourke said her event was a way to pay it forward to others in the community.

I love hearing about people in the community who are dedicated to helping others.

In today's paper, we talk to two women who do different jobs, but are both inspirational.

One is a policewoman; the other is the owner of a fashion store. But both are trying to make a difference in our community.

Michelle Basson graduated from police college in February this year and said the job was something she always wanted to do, while Julie Bourke is organising her second fundraising fashion show.

They should be celebrated for their accomplishments.

Mrs Basson, 42, says becoming a police officer has been a dream of hers since she was a child.

A quote of hers in today's story sums her up nicely.

"I'm a people person and love helping people.

"I also wanted to make a difference in people's lives. As a police officer, you get plenty of chances to do that.

"Some days when I get home I'm really tired but then I stop and think - 'wow, I really did make a difference today'. It feels really great when you get a thank you from someone you have helped," she says.

If only more people could say that about their job.

Meanwhile, Mrs Bourke is using her own time to co-organise Fashion for Families, an event she says is a way for the community to pay it forward.

This is the second year the event is being held. Last year $13,000 was raised for Amanda Lowry, who broke her neck in a surfing accident.

This year, the money raised is going to the families of Kereopa McDonald and Elijah Murray.

Kereopa McDonald, 14, was diagnosed with a bone cancer, osteosarcoma, after he broke his arm doing press-ups at a rugby training. Elija Murray, 6, woke up at 6 weeks old with a skin pigmentation where his skin presented in two different colours, and at 10 months old he was diagnosed with the rare condition hypomelanosis.

This paper often profiles those in the community who help others and it is something which always gives me pleasure in reading.

Mrs Basson and Mrs Bourke are aiming to make a difference in our community.

We are lucky to have them and many others who carry out selfless acts to help others.