Community
20 December, 2024
Relaying for Dad
LIKE so many others taking part in next year’s Relay for Life, Warrnambool’s Alison Madden will be thinking of those who have passed and those who are still battling cancer.
Alison’s father Ray was only 75 when he died in 2018, just seven short months after being diagnosed with cancer.
“Losing dad was absolutely devastating and that really spurred me on to again get a team together and enter next year’s Relay,” Alison said.
“I’ll be walking for my dad, and also for my three maternal aunties who have all battled breast cancer.
“I don’t know of anyone who hasn’t been touched by cancer in some form or another; it affects so many people, there’s such a ripple effect.
“I have walked before but last year was the first time I have formed a team.
“Some of my work colleagues from South West Healthcare’s women’s health services have decided to join me, and I’m hoping others will come on board between now and the event on February 22.”
This year Alison has named her team the WHSLV4 (Women’s Health Services Level 4) Legends.
“Raising money for cancer research is such an important thing to do, and recognising those who have been lost and those who are on their own cancer journeys is just an important,” Alison said.
“Last year we raised just over $3,800 and finished in the top five of 26 teams across our region; this year I’m hoping we can raise even more money.”
Alison and her team will be easily recognised on the walking track next year – they have decided their ‘baton’ will be a purple cape, adorned with the names of all those they are walking in honour of.
Relay for Life is a fun and moving experience that raises vital funds for the Cancer Council’s research, prevention and support services.
It is a chance for the community to recognise and celebrate local cancer survivors, those going through a cancer experience and their carers.
It is also an opportunity to honour and remember loved ones lost and to raise money to help save more lives.
The 2025 Warrnambool Relay for Life will be held on Saturday, February 22 from 12 noon until 10pm at Deakin University.
