Pink walk raises $2000 for breast cancer

It was a sea of pink at the Te Aroha Domain  as Piako residents took part in the annual Pink Walk for Life.

In support of breast cancer awareness month residents participated in the 5km fun walk organised by Te Aroha resident Suzy Monds.

Ms Monds said the Te Aroha Pink Walk has been running  for three years and the community and retailers are very supportive.

Starting at the town clock and finishing at Cafe Banco, participants succeeded in raising much-needed funds and awareness for breast cancer.

“We get people from Hamilton, Tokoroa, Morrinsville and Paeroa participating.

“We release helium balloons as a symbol, to recognise those we have lost to breast cancer, those that are still fighting breast cancer and for those that have survived,” Ms Monds said.

While work continues all year round, funds raised throughout October allow the Cancer Society and the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation (NZBCF) to continue the work they provide.

NZBCF Communications Manager Adèle Gautier said funds raised will be used to educate younger women about breast cancer and the need to be aware of their family history and other risk factors.

“The money will also help fund the foundation’s wider work in community education, research, and supporting women with breast cancer.

“We don’t receive any government funding, so events like the Te Aroha walks are important to us,” Ms Gautier said.

Each year thousands of dollars are raised in support of the NZBCF thanks to volunteers and participants of events like this.

“We sincerely appreciate the effort of everyone involved,” Ms Gautier said.

Morrinsville Lions members also took to the streets during the day, setting up stations around the town allowing members of the public  to donate and support the iconic pink ribbon with pride.

The Te Aroha Pink Walk for Life raised around $2000.

To make an online donation to the New Zealand breast Cancer Foundation, click here.