November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and a leading charity is calling on Aussies to light a lantern in support of those who have been affected by the disease.
Lung Foundation Australia's Shine a Light calls on people who have been affected by lung cancer to light lanterns and take part in local community walks in order to raise awareness.
Lung Foundation Australia acting chief executive Christa Bayer said the organisation aimed to raise $175,000 through its largest annual fundraiser this year.
"The community walks aim to raise awareness, break stigma, and provide a place of support to give hope and honour those we love," Ms Bayer said.
Ms Bayer said for more than five years Lung Foundation Australia advocated for a screening program to improve lung cancer outcomes, a goal that has now been realised.
"We know the lung cancer screening program will save thousands of lives," she said.
"If Australians with lung cancer are diagnosed at Stage I, their five-year survival rate nears 70 per cent."
Ms Bayer said the charity was now focused on raising funds for research and specialist lung cancer nurses - areas in which she says lung cancer is lagging well behind other common cancers.
"This year alone, more than 14,529 Australian families will be touched by lung cancer," she said.
"We know the lung cancer screening program will save thousands of lives."
Lanterns can be ordered in three different colours:
- Purple: For those who are remembering a loved one
- Orange: For people living with lung cancer
- Green: For those showing support to the lung cancer community
People are also invited to hold their own fundraiser events including bake sales, personal challenges, and gala dinners.
For more information, including community walk locations, or how to start your own event, call 1800-654-301, email supporters@lungfoundation.com.au or click here.
