Tags: Cancer awareness. Fundraising. Gold Coast marathon. Council. Queensland.
BRIBIE ISLAND LOCAL RUNNING TOWARDS A CANCER FREE FUTURE
No family should have to experience the devastation of cancer, which is why Kelly McKinlay is determined to change the lives of those affected by the disease. The Bribie Island local knows first-hand how trying a cancer diagnosis can be on a family – many of Ms McKinlay’s friends and family members have had cancer.
To ensure others don’t have to go through a similar experience, Ms McKinlay will run a 42km full marathon at the 2018 Gold Coast Marathon on July 1 to raise funds and awareness for Cancer Council Queensland. “I was 21 when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer – thankfully, she’s been cancer free for 15 years now,” she said. “I think last year was the most trying year for me.
A close friend of mine, the same age as me, passed away from cancer at just 37 and we know of someone currently undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. “I also lost my uncle to pancreatic cancer on Father’s Day – that’s when I just thought ‘enough.’ “I have two little girls, and I never want them to have to go through something like this, so I decided to run the Gold Coast Marathon.
“I love running, so joining Team CCQ was a great opportunity to raise awareness and funds for Cancer Council Queensland, and help find a cure for this horrible disease.” Donations can be made to Ms McKinlay’s cause at gcam2018. everydayhero.com/au/kellyaka- party-rocker. Team CCQ is a fitness team founded as part of Cancer Council’s Get Moving campaign – an initiative encouraging runners, gymgoers, and fitness enthusiasts across Queensland to lace up their joggers for the cause. Cancer Council Queensland CEO Chris McMillan said those who take part in the 40th annual Gold Coast Marathon with Team CCQ give hope to Queenslanders touched by cancer.
“At least one-third of all cancer cases are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices including being active and maintaining a healthy weight,” Ms McMillan said. “By joining the Team CCQ community at the 2018 Gold Coast Marathon, you can be confident you’re making a difference to Queenslanders affected by cancer and improving your personal health at the same time. “All funds raised by Team CCQ participants are invested in vital cancer research, patient support services and prevention programs statewide.”
Becoming a member of Team CCQ gives Queenslanders access to free nutritional information, recipes and active advice, discounted entry to selected events, prizes, and access to a personal fundraising advisor.
Participants can take part in either the Gold Coast Marathon, Wheelchair Marathon, ASICS Half Marathon, Wheelchair 15km, Southern Cross University 10km run, Gold Coast Airport 5.7km Fun Run or the Garmin 4km and 2km Junior Dash.
To register or find out more information, visit www.cancerqld.org.au/goldcoastmarathon More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via www.cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.
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