THE Cancer Council has wrapped-up another successful year at Hawkesbury Relay For Life, and the campaign is well on its way to reaching its year-long fundraising target of $1.5 million.
Relay chair Rebecca Tulk said it was a “massive” turnout from residents at Hawkesbury Showground at the weekend, who walked laps and connected with like-minded individuals all keen to help those affected by cancer.
The weekend raised $37,638, just shy of the $53,562 needed to reach the goal sum. But there are still funds to be banked, and donations from the community can still be made online.
“The weather was amazing and we have received so much positive feedback,” said Ms Tulk. “We had 286 registered participants although during the day the numbers swelled closer to 400.”
Richmond’s world record-holding race walker, 91-year-old Heather Lee, hit her goal of 100,000 steps with the help of her support team, walking all day and night with only a few breaks to rest her legs.
“Heather's husband died from cancer many years ago and she vowed to do whatever she could to support those living with cancer. Heather was at the very first Hawkesbury Relay for Life 15 years ago and hasn't missed one since,” said Ms Tulk.
Inspirational guests included the Douglass family of Londonderry, who spoke at the opening ceremony about eight-year-old Levi’s brain tumour and subsequent chemotherapy, radiation and brain surgery.
“Levi is currently well and has now mastered riding his bike and has just progressed to riding a motorbike. He will soon be competing at the State championships for discus and 800m,” said Ms Tulk.
“Dad Josh, Mum Alison, big brother Cailan and Levi are extremely grateful for the support they received at Hawkesbury Relay for Life.”
The weekend began with survivors, carers and supporters walking through a ‘guard of honour’ filled with purple balloons and flags. Throughout the weekend there was around-the-clock entertainment, kids games, a jumping castle, face painting, performances by local dance troupes, a box car rally, a ‘onesie run’, silent disco and movies throughout the night, as well as team displays from RFS, council, NSW ambos, and more.
The money raised through the campaign has assisted with cancer research grants, helping to improve survival rates. It has also helped all local schools register as ‘sunsmart’ schools, and provided emergency funds for people going through their cancer journey, as well as helping run the free 13 11 20 support hotline.
Donate at relayforlife.org.au/hawkesbury.
Sarah Falson
Daily Liberal journalist. I love telling people's stories. Get in touch at sarah.falson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Daily Liberal journalist. I love telling people's stories. Get in touch at sarah.falson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
