Sixty years ago a small group of Queensland volunteers pledged to make a difference to the lives of people in their community affected by cancer.
Create a free account to read this article
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
This group of well-meaning fundraisers, who got together in 1961, has since grown into Cancer Council Queensland - the state's leading not-for-profit for cancer information, support and research.
Around 30,000 Queenslanders are diagnosed with cancer each year - that's around one person every 20 minutes - and one in two Queenslanders will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.
Over the decades, Cancer Council Queensland has worked to ease the burden of cancer across the state including pioneering life-saving research, successfully fighting for law changes to minimise cancer risk and launching the 13 11 20 advice and support line.
To mark six decades, Cancer Council Queensland is travelling around the state to celebrate with the people and communities that have supported them over the years.
Cancer Council Queensland chief executive, Chris McMillan, said that after a challenging year in 2020, taking the opportunity to celebrate milestones like this 60th anniversary is vital.
"To celebrate we're venturing on a regional tour to catch up with those who have been integral to the growth of Cancer Council Queensland over the years," said Ms McMillan.
Thousands of Queenslanders donate and volunteer their time for Cancer Council Queensland each day.
"Hearing the stories of our volunteers, the incredible work they have carried out in their local communities, and their commitment to easing the burden of cancer across Queensland, has been insightful and heart-warming.
"Our 60th anniversary a is chance for us to acknowledge and celebrate the hard work of our employees, volunteers, donors and supporters."
She said in the past 60-years over 100,000 Queenslanders have taken part in Cancer Council Queensland research and around 250,000 Queenslanders are alive today following a cancer diagnosis in the past 30 years.
Cancer Council Queensland has offices statewide and operates emotional and practical services including transport to treatment and five accommodation lodges, providing regional cancer patients with a home-away-from-home when they access treatment services in Queensland's major cities.
If you or a loved one needs support following a cancer diagnosis, please call 13 11 20 or visit cancerqld.org.au
Geraldine Cardozo
Features Editor at The Senior.
Features Editor at The Senior.
