Fifty-five Australians will be diagnosed with breast cancer today. Tomorrow, another 55 will.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation estimates that this year, 55 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer every day, making it the most diagnosed cancer in the country.
That's why Susan Roche is doing 55 squats every day in March to raise awareness and funds to beat the disease as part of the foundation's nationwide campaign.
Susan's mother, sister and aunt have all been diagnosed with the disease throughout their lives, as have many friends.
"We have a reasonable family history with it so it's dear to my heart," the 63-year-old ACT resident said. "It's also time for me to do 55 squats per day. The challenge is pushing me to get some exercise in my life as well as raise some funds."
It could be tricky as Susan admits she isn't a "gym person"; but she's up for the challenge.
"My sister had breast cancer and looking at all the treatment she went through, really, what's 55 squats a day?
"There's no excuse not to do it as it doesn't require gym equipment. I'm sure I'll have a sore butt for the first few days."
Susan has already exceeded her fundraising target of $500, with the money raised supporting vital research projects, such as developing new techniques to stop aggressive breast cancer cells from spreading around the body.
- www.nbcf.org.au