Paddling for cancer rehab
Wellingtonians of all ages and abilities are being encouraged to throw on every pink clothing item they own and jump on a paddleboard, in an effort to raise money for cancer rehabilitation.
For the first time in the event’s seven-year history, the Paddle for Hope fundraiser is set to take to the waters of Wellington Harbour, as part of Waterbourne, an extreme water sports event bringing kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand up paddleboarding together at Eastbourne over the Easter weekend.
The idea behind the charity side of the event is to show support for those with cancer, while also enjoying a fun, easy workout.
‘‘Everyone has been affected by cancer in some way or another so this is about thinking ‘what can I do to be helpful’,’’ Wellington physio Andrea Scott says.
‘‘It’s a cool way for people to get out, get active and show that people [with cancer] don’t have to go through it alone.’’
Scott is part of a team of Wellington oncology physiotherapists from the Habit clinics who are taking on the challenge, with the cause one that’s close to their hearts.
‘‘We are the lead supplier across the North Island for ACC and privately funded rehabilitation and we have physiotherapists who have gone through extra training to specifically help people who have had cancer.’’
Paddle For Hope was founded by Victoria Stuart and two-time breast cancer survivor Karin Horen. Since 2011, it has helped more than 450 people get on the water around New Zealand and raised $350,000 for cancer rehabilitation – a figure that will hopefully be bolstered significantly by the Waterbourne event, which aims to raise $20,000.
The money raised will pay for Kiwis with cancer to participate in Pinc & Steel Cancer Rehabilitation Trust’s PaddleOn Programme.
The main event is a four-person team relay event so while no experience is required, you’ll need to get a team together. However, you’ll be in good company with players from the wider squads of the Hurricanes and Phoenix also expected to attend along with a politician or two, all clad in some fabulous pink outfits.