Stories

Thousands of Victorians to walk for cancer cause

Julian McGrath August 12, 2015

2 min read

The Leukaemia Foundation’s popular Light the Night event will see those impacted by blood cancer, including leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma, join one of almost 100 organised walks expected to take place across Australia. Leukaemia Foundation aims to raise $1.5 million.

Light the Night is now in its eighth year and raises funds for blood cancer research and support for families affected by the disease. As well the 27 flagship events hosted by the Leukaemia Foundation, there will also be dozens of smaller community walks held by local residents in each state.

“Light the Night will be extra special this year as the whole of Australia unites to create a brighter future for people with blood cancer,” Stephanie Hechenberger, General Manager of the Leukaemia Foundation in Victoria, said.

“It’s always an uplifting and visually stunning event that brings families and friends together to light beautiful lanterns, but with so many walks during October it promises to be a spectacular year.

“Sadly blood cancer doesn’t discriminate so people of all ages from all walks of life get involved. For one of the Foundation’s longstanding supporters, Barbara Baak, this year marks a decade in remission as she hosts her fourth Light the Night walk in her local community.”

Light the Night attendees will complete a short walk of about 3km carrying one of three coloured lanterns; gold to remember someone, white for their own journey, or blue to show they care.

The Leukaemia Foundation aims to raise $1.5 million nationally to help families by funding vital research to improve treatments and find cures, and continuing to provide free emotional and practical support.

“More than 60,000 Australians are living with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related blood disorders, and every day another 34 people are diagnosed,” Ms Hechenberger added.

“While research is improving survival, blood cancer claims more Australian lives than breast cancer or melanoma and so more needs to be done. We believe that one day, there will be a cure for everyone and our ongoing investment in research is critical to unlocking that future.”

The Leukaemia Foundation receives no ongoing government funding and relies on community support to fund its important work.