Breast cancer survivor Anne Tucker is opening up her Richardson St property this weekend to raise money for the Breast Cancer Foundation. Photo: Kate Russell.

Breast cancer survivor opens home to help others

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A Nelson breast cancer survivor is opening up her grand old home and garden this weekend, as a way to say “thank you” to those who helped her in her recovery.

Anne Tucker and her husband have spent the last five years restoring ‘Turama’ – their 1922 Californian bungalow, which sits high above Tahunanui on Richardson St. Now she is inviting people to come take a look and enjoy a Devonshire tea or sundowner wine session, with all the proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Foundation.

Anne was diagnosed with breast cancer in January this year.

“It’s like getting on a treadmill, and it doesn’t stop,” says Anne. “You suddenly go through all these appointments, surgery and radiotherapy.”

Thankfully, the cancer didn’t spread, and now she wants to give back to all those that helped her.

“Apart from all the anxious moments and stress – it didn’t cost me anything. The support network was just amazing and this is just a way to give back to the Breast Cancer Foundation.”

Anne says that when they brought the property 10 years ago, they had a vision to “bring back the character and open it up to the light and the views”. And that is exactly what they have done.

They have managed to successfully combine the original style with modern touches. “It was a real labour of love,” says Anne. “Our builder said he’d been building all his life to build this house, and we found some amazing things. The doors had about seven layers of paint on them.”

Also complete with an orangery, greenhouse, cottage garden, David Austin rose garden, Japanese garden, berry and vegetable gardens and fruit trees – every inch of the outdoor space has been utilized.

Anne says she has sold about half of the tickets so far.

“There is the potential to sell 150 tickets, which would raise about $4500 – so hopefully we can sell them all.”

The sessions will take place at 1A Richardson St, this Friday 1 December and Saturday 2 December.

There are three sessions each day – morning tea from 9:30am – 11:30am, afternoon tea from 2:30pm to 4:30pm (both $25 per person) and sundowner wine and nibbles from 6:30pm – 8:30pm ($40 per person). 25 people per session.

For more information or to purchase a ticket, phone Anne Tucker on 021450186 or email [email protected]