"Almost four years ago, in April 2020, my wife Nina at age 42 was diagnosed with bowel cancer. This diagnosis was a total surprise to us - definitely not on our radar. Up until this time we were living a ‘normal’ life, both working and raising our three children, enjoying trips away and spending time with family and friends. Nina was a nurse in the Emergency department of The Women’s and Children’s Hospital here in Adelaide.
Since the diagnosis, Nina has had multiple surgeries and procedures, and has just completed her 30th round of chemo. She has found Bowel Cancer Australia to be a lifeline for our family as she has navigated through the last 4 years.
So, deciding to participate in World Cancer Day 2024 and raise funds for Bowel Cancer Australia and awareness for World Cancer Day was a no-brainer for me.
At 9 a.m. on Sunday 4th February we kicked off World Cancer Day with a 5km beach walk from Henley to Grange. I called this fundraising event “Walk with Nina”. When I signed up to walk for Bowel Cancer Australia I never expected to have such a big support crew. It was beautiful to have so many people come with us.
After the walk, we returned to assist in raising awareness and funds for Bowel Cancer Australia. As a massive bonus, we were able to raise over $2,500.
The support, care and reassurance Nina has received from Bowel Cancer Australia, a 100% community-funded organisation, has really been instrumental in assisting her to navigate through the challenges she has faced. We have been so fortunate to have the ongoing support from the telehealth Nurses and Nutritionists, The Movement online community, and Peer to Peer Support groups.
The beach walk is one Nina and I often do during chemo week; it helps to clear the mind, and there is something special about the sand and water, it is good for the soul….plus the dog Archie loves it too.
This is my small way of giving back to Bowel Cancer Australia." ~ Aaron.
If you were inspired by Aaron's amazing fundraising efforts and would like to support Bowel Cancer Australia through a community fundraiser get in touch with us through our webform.