2022 Project of Mercy Grant Recipient Courtney D’Mello
The Old Girl Association’s Project of Mercy grant has continued into its second year. This award enables a past student to undertake a planned project of their choosing, with the primary focus of helping others within the Western Australian community.Â
Congratulations to Courtney D’Mello (2008), one of the 2022 Project of Mercy grant recipients for the Grief and Bereavement Support Group at the Motor Neurone Disease Association of Western Australia.
Courtney talks to us about how the grant will be utilised:Â
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive neurological condition that attacks a person’s nerves or motor neurones. This disease is diagnosed in people of all ages, both men and women, and currently, there is no cure or effective treatment. The MND Association of WA (MNDAWA) provides holistic medical, physical, and emotional care and support services for people impacted by MND. We also support the carers and families while they support their loved ones living with MND and through the bereavement process.
At MNDAWA, one of the services offered is a Grief and Bereavement Support Group. This group is facilitated by a specialised and experienced counsellor who helps guide families impacted by MND to understand their grieving process, manage their unique grief, and find their strength. The Project of Mercy grant has funded this program for six months, providing invaluable support to many of our families going through this difficult journey.
It is estimated that for every life lost to MND, 14 people will live with the effects of MND forever. While MND progresses differently in everyone, it is an understandably difficult experience for those who have witnessed their loved one face these challenges. By facilitating our Grief and Bereavement Support Group, we can make a difference in the lives of those left behind and be a part of their healing process.
Thank you to the OGA and Santa Maria College for your generous contribution to our organisation and for joining us in making a difference in our community. As we say- until there is a cure, there is care.
- Featured #Alumni
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
From the President – September 2024
Welcome to the September edition of the Old Girls’ Association Blog. This month, we celebrate the inaugural Mercy Awards, recognising the incredible contributions from Fatima Horta and Roslind Witham our worthy award winners. Their dedication to the College community and advocacy work highlights the true essence of mercy values.
Sisterhood Networking Series – An Evening with Sandra Boyle
We hosted an inspiring Sisterhood Networking Session with Sandra Boyle, a pioneer in mediation and negotiation. Sandra shared her incredible journey from one of few women in a law cohort to becoming a leading figure in Australian law. The evening was filled with invaluable insights, camaraderie, and inspiration.
Save the Date – Golden Girls Luncheon
The annual Golden Girls’ Luncheon is set for 7 November 2024 at Santa Maria College! A special event for alumnae who graduated in 1974 or earlier, it’s a day to reconnect, laugh, and relive cherished memories. Official invitations will arrive soon, so mark your calendars and get ready for a day of joy and nostalgia.
IGSSA Athletics 2024 – A Celebration of our Depth
Year 11 Social: A Night to Remember
