Meet Ruby D’Rozario from Thirroul, childhood cancer survivor and ambassador for Shine Like Charli

How long have you lived in the Illawarra?

My siblings and I have called the Illawarra home for our entire lives. We feel incredibly fortunate to have grown up in such a beautiful part of the world.

Tell us about how you’re an ambassador for the Shine Like Charli Ball?

The Shine Like Charli Gala Ball is an incredible event to be part of. In fact, the only way I knew about it was through the community here in the Illawarra. It was through Wollongong Hospital that one of our beloved nurses, Laura, mentioned my name to Faye and Charli during one of their stays. Laura said we had a lot in common, so we connected via Instagram. Since we both live in the Illawarra we decided to meet in person. That’s where our conversation began.

Last year, Faye asked me if I’d like to share my story at the Ball, having had Acute Myeloid Leukaemia not once, but twice. It was an incredible evening, we raised over $100k for i98fm Illawarra Convoy and The Children’s Cancer Institute. After the event, I left in absolute awe of our community's commitment and dedication to helping change the lives of children diagnosed with cancer.

I once heard this quote...cancer is the worst way to meet some of the nicest people. And that extraordinary night proved that to me. You can read more about my story via my Instagram page @leukwhoisliving. There you will find the video that was presented at the ball before I spoke.

What do you love most about living and working in Thirroul?

We have an incredible community full of amazing individuals. What I love most about living and working in Thirroul is that the community is consistently radiating positivity.

I work at the local gift shop, Thirroul + Co. I started working for Thirroul + Co back in December last year. It was actually through Debbie the owner of one of the businesses in the Thirroul and Co, Floral With Open Arms, who connected me with the shop's founder, Sheralee and that’s how I got the job. Sheralee is truly remarkable. Her selflessness, inclusivity, generosity, and unwavering support has been truly incredible. Moreover, her kindness, care, and supportiveness has second to none. Since starting at Thirroul + Co in December last year, Sheralee and the team have been very accommodating.

Favourite local cafe and restaurant?

Blackbird – The staff at Blackbird are incredible. They always remember my order, a mocha with a little extra choccy :) My two favourite dishes for theirs are the corn fritters and their BLT!

Crank Coffee Co – These guys are open until mid-afternoon. During afternoons at work, a hot choccy always keeps us going.

Old Siam – I highly recommended Old Siam’s Crying Tiger as well as their Chicken Fried Rice. All their dishes are delicious.

To support Shine Like Charli :

Purchase a raffle ticket or bid on an auction item as part of their annual fundraiser, this Saturday 22 June.

Follow Ruby at @leukwhoisliving and the team at @shine.like.charli