Natalie Damianides

So it begins!

Started the challenge today and went for a walk first thing this morning. It was great. Walked around the oval at the end of my street. It was peace and quiet, fresh air, beautiful sky. Managed 2.39 km. Woohoo. ? it's a great start I think. 

I'm taking on Cancer Council's The March Charge...

...a month-long fitness challenge to raise funds for world-class cancer research, prevention programs, and support services. 

Raising funds for cancer research is a cause that is close to my heart. I know what it's like to be affected by cancer. It is devastating and it turns your life upside down. I know that prevention and early detection is paramount and it will save lives. A Cancer diagnosis affects every aspect of life. In 2016 my amazing Dad was diagnosed with stage IV Lung cancer and after going through very tough treatments, unfortunately in 2018 he lost his battle with cancer at 67 years old. 

 It shattered our hearts and souls and I wouldn't wish that experience for anyone else. I believe that more research means that effective prevention and treatment is possible. We have already come a long way in treatments for many cancers such as breast cancer which affects 1 in 8 women. 

Cancer knows no age. It can affect anyone. So I'm taking part in this challenge in honor of my dad Darioush, and for myself, my family and my friends and anyone who has battled or is battling cancer. 

This year in Australia an estimated 162,000 people will hear the words "you have cancer", I'm doing my part to change this by getting active and fundraising for people impacted by cancer. 

Please sponsor me today to make every KM count! Every dollar raised will help support Cancer Council’s life-saving cancer research, prevention programs and support services (like their free, confidential Information and Support line 13 11 20) for people affected by cancer. 

Let's tell cancer where to go!