A relay thank you
On behalf of Cancer Council Victoria, I would like to sincerely thank the community of Warragul for supporting the recent West Gippsland Relay For Life.
More than 479 Relayed on Saturday and Sunday March 18 and 19 in 18 teams, walking overnight to show that Hope Lives in West Gippsland for those experiencing cancer.
During the Relay, there was laughter, tears and no doubt, a few sore feet. But the strength shown by the local West Gippsland community members was a public display of support for anyone in West Gippsland with a cancer experience.
So far, more than $44,000 has been raised by West Gippsland Relayers, which will help fund Cancer Council Victoria’s support, prevention and research programs.
The money raised at West Gippsland Relay For Life will help Cancer Council Victoria continue to provide programs including:
Funding some of Victoria’s brightest researchers and their cutting-edge projects each year to help detect, treat and beat cancer.
Important prevention programs like PapScreen Victoria, Quit and SunSmart to make sure people have all the information they need to cut their risk of cancer.
A particular focus this year is on improving bowel screening rates, with the latest statistic showing that only 41.4 per cent of eligible people in Baw Baw Shire participate. We recommend bowel screening every two years between the ages of 50 and 74.
Support services including a pro-bono legal assistance service to help those affected by cancer who may be struggling with issues such as wills, early access to superannuation, debt matters, or returning to work.
Our information and support line, Cancer Council 131120, where qualified cancer nurses give people information and support.
Our Living with Cancer Education Program, which provides information for people experiencing cancer, facilitated by trained health professionals. There is a Living With Cancer Education Program happening in Ringwood on Wednesday, Apri 5.
Thank you again to everyone who Relayed and helped continue the fight against cancer.
Todd Harper, CEO, Cancer Council Victoria