Dubbo councillor Rod Towney has asked that people look into their hearts and wallets for Norma Dunn, who must travel to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for surgery on a brain tumour.

The operation is a risk for the 70-year-old and her family says she will fight if they’re by her side.

The Dunns have already had two trips to Sydney this year and last month Mrs Dunn’s operation was postponed after they had already travelled to Sydney.

Now the family is expecting a call from the hospital but daughters Jody and Rebecca desperately want to be by her side.

Cr Towney has heard of Mrs Dunn’s ill health and this week spoke out.

“I’ve known the Dunn family for years and years,” he said.

Mrs Dunn has raised six sons and four daughters and been a foster carer to more children.

“She’s always put her family and her children before herself, she’s been dedicated to make sure the kids in her care get the best out of life,” Cr Towney said.

“The family is very concerned about their mother’s health. Mrs Dunn is the kind of woman who needs her family around.”

Cr Towney urged community members to “put their hands in their pockets” to help Mrs Dunn and her family through the tough time.

“If they could do the operation here it would be a different story, but they can’t,” he said.

“Mrs Dunn has put her heart and soul into helping others, it would be great if people could put their hands in their pockets.”

Mrs Dunn fell sick the day before Christmas and went to hospital the day before New Year’s Eve, after which the tumour was discovered, Jody Dunn said.

“The doctor has said Mum’s tumour is life threatening,” she said.

“The family pulled together for the last two trips.

“I’m looking for help for me, my sister and the four children who live with her to support her.

“Mum’s at home at the moment, but the hospital could call any day.”

Ms Dunn wants to be ready when they do.

“Every little bit helps, we don’t expect big money, $5, $10, that adds up,” she said.

“It’s been an emotional rollercoaster for our family, it’s hit home that Mum could be here one minute, gone the next.

“Her sons, daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren all want her here, we’ve only got one Mum, one Nan.”

Any individuals or organisations who can help the Dunn family can contact the Daily Liberal on 6883 2900.