21 February 2018

March for Melanoma - Walk to raise funds for life-changing research

| Lachlan Roberts
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Melanoma March Canberra

Show your support, join the Melanoma March. Photo: Supplied.

‘Australia’s national cancer’ – as melanoma is commonly called – is the most common cancer in young Australians aged between 15– 39-year-olds, making up 20 per cent of all cancer cases. According to the Melanoma Institute Australia, the cancer kills more young Australians aged 20 – 39 than any other cancer.

Being the third most common cancer in Australian men and women, it seems like melanoma has touched the lives of every Canberran. Even if you have never had melanoma, there is a strong chance that you know someone who has.

To show your support for melanoma research and to raise funds to find a cure while having a fun day out with your community, come along to the Melanoma March on Sunday morning the 18th of March.

The march is a fun community event where participants can walk along a short course to raise awareness about melanoma and funds for life-changing research. It gives the Canberra community an opportunity to remember those who have died, celebrate those who have survived, and show their support for research that can improve treatment and hopefully one day provide a cure.

Melanoma March Canberra will commence from the end of Pescott Lane in Weston Park, just near the mini train carpark. The walk will be a lovely and easy 4km stroll following the flat footpath around the park past the nursery, with views of Lake Burley Griffin.

Sharon Dei Rocini, who has battled and survived Stage 4 melanoma for the last five years, is a local advocate for melanoma research and awareness.

“I started getting headaches and blurred vision and then couldn’t read things properly. I went for a CT scan and they found three tumours in my brain. Then they discovered it had also spread to my lungs. Once they were removed, they kept returning. As a teenager, I used to lie around in the sun slathered in baby oil. It’s just so dangerous and I want everyone – especially young people – to be aware of the dangers.”

She urges the community to get behind the cause and spread the word.

“It will be a great way to spend a morning, with jumping castles and face paints for the kids. We will have someone share with us their personal terrible battle with melanoma, with a butterfly release and a minutes’ silence to not just remember those who have passed, but those who are currently struggling with this deadly cancer.”

“Just remember to cover up, wear a hat and slap on some sunscreen.”

There will be stalls serving drinks and light refreshments from 9 am, with a sausage sizzle, egg & bacon rolls and coffee also being served. Dogs on leashes are also welcome to join in the walk.

All funds raised will go towards crucial research dedicated to finding a cure for melanoma.

Registrations on the day open from 9 am, with the march commencing at 10 am. Click here to register.

Melanoma March starts at 9 am at Weston Park on the 18th March. Bring the whole family and the dog to show your support.

For more information, visit their Facebook page.

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