Community
16 October, 2024
Pink ride helps raise breast cancer funds, awareness
Around 30 people turned out for the motorcycle ride on Sunday.
Fundraising events are essential to ensuring those facing treatment for breast cancer can receive ongoing financial support and counselling, says Mount Isa Ride for Pink event organiser Peter Roberts,
Despite a decline in numbers on Sunday compared to recent years, Mr Roberts said he hoped to continue the event in the future that provides support for the Mount Isa Breast Cancer Support Group.
“When my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer 30 years ago it nearly bankrupted my family,” he told North West Weekly.
“The cost of medical help today is even higher and so we want to try to keep giving any support we can for those who are facing treatment.
“The work of the support group is very important, and we want to see it continue.”
Mount Isa Breast Cancer Support Group provides hampers worth more than $300 to all women in the city diagnosed with breast cancer. These hampers include moisturizers, soap, mouth gel and anti-tangle combs that may assist those undergoing chemotherapy.
Group secretary Gayle Steed was forced to leave Mount Isa for treatment when she was diagnosed with breast cancer 19 years ago.
It was while undergoing chemotherapy in Townsville that she discovered the various support groups along the coast.
She said these support groups also provided counselling services to those receiving treatment and survivors of the illness.
“I am evidence that you can survive breast cancer,” Ms Steed said.
“But sometimes you just need to sit down and have a laugh with some friends.”
About 30 motorcyclists roared from Outback at Isa, across the Sir James Foot Bridge to Lake Moondarra on Sunday morning, where Zonta and Paws Hoofs and Claws provided light refreshments.
