A North Haven resident who founded a cancer support group in memory of his late wife, has been selected to appear on the cover of this year’s Port Macquarie White Pages and Yellow Pages book.
Robert Rule will be the star attraction on the cover of the books which will be distributed throughout Port Macquarie, Kempsey and surrounding areas in the coming weeks.
The theme for this year’s Cover’s Program, A Helping Hand, The Aussie Way, recognises Robert’s volunteer work as founder and president of the Can Assist Mid North Coast branch.
After losing his wife Adele to cancer in 2008, Robert made it his mission to honour her dying wish to help others with the disease.
In April 2010, Robert established the Mid North Coast Can Assist branch, which provides financial aid and support services for cancer sufferers and their families throughout the region.
“My beloved late wife Adele was a passionate volunteer cancer worker and I’m incredibly honoured to be recognised for fulfilling her parting wish. Establishing the Mid North Can Assist branch has enabled me to provide hope and courage to other cancer sufferers and their families,” said Robert.
Also an advocate for men in the region, Robert established the Laurieton Men’s Shed in 2010.
Robert has personally contributed the majority of funds towards the shed’s construction, which provides a place for local men to meet and continue to be actively involved and valued within the community.
The Shed doesn’t open until July 2012 but Robert has already signed up more than 200 members.
“I’m looking forward to what this year will bring, especially with the official opening of the Men’s Shed in July,” Robert said.
“I’m really excited about the opportunity the Shed will provide men in the Port Macquarie region”.