02 September 2024
After a seven-year battle with prostate cancer, Sierra’s Dad passed away in January this year. During Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Sierra will walk 72km to raise funds in honour of her Dad.
“From the time of his diagnosis, my Dad worked closely with PCFA to spread awareness about prostate cancer, and he participated in The Long Run several times,” Sierra said.
“The most prominent year of his participation was 2022, when he raised $2,000 and walked a total of 80km, all whilst undergoing his own brutal chemo treatment.
“Seeing him struggle to walk down the hallway some days, but still finding the strength to go above and beyond his 72km goal, was incredibly inspiring.
“Dad was the strongest person I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing, and this year I wanted to make it a priority to raise money and participate in The Long Run.
“It’s now my turn to do something for Dad.”
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with more than 26,000 men told they have prostate cancer every year.
Sierra is lacing up for The Long Run to raise funds for research into new treatments, and also awareness about early detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer – which could be lifesaving.
“Get checked. Dad fought his cancer tirelessly, and if he hadn’t been so aware or involved in his own treatment, we wouldn’t have had as much time as we did,” Sierra said.
“Dad always thrived on a sense of community, and working with PCFA and other men being affected by prostate cancer gave him that.
“Being able to see the real-time effect of PCFA funding going towards trial drugs like the one Dad was on, had a positive impact on all of us.
“Dad put up a hard fight and chose to educate others on the affect that prostate cancer
has on men and the people around them.
“He passed, wearing a Long Run shirt, and ever since that moment, I’ve wanted my own Long Run shirt so I can wear it with pride and think of my Dad.”
Australians can donate directly to Sierra’s efforts via https://www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/sierrawebb/the-long-run-2024.
PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, called on Australians to advocate, donate, and discuss the disease this September.
“This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we are calling on all Australians to inspire community action in the fight against prostate cancer,” Ms Savage said.
“We are tremendously grateful for those participating in The Long Run, like Sierra, who are stepping out to raise vital awareness and funds.
“Every dollar raised through The Long Run helps PCFA support all men affected by prostate cancer, and their families.
“Our ultimate goal through this campaign is to help make prostate cancer history.”
Thousands are expected to take part in The Long Run, Australia’s largest online event in support of families facing the disease. Visit www.thelongrun.org.au today.
For more information and to find a local support group, call 1800 22 00 99 or go to www.prostate.org.au.
ENDS
Media contacts for further information or interviews:
PCFA - 1800 22 00 99
Katie Clift – katie@maybe.agency |M +351 913 976 202
