It’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the local community, and now Bairnsdale Regional Health Service specialist nurse Ashley Leach is leading the charge to help save lives by taking on 72 kilometres of running during September for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
During September, supporters of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) take part in The Long Run to raise vital founds for the organisation.
“As a specialist nurse supporting men with prostate cancer, I have seen first-hand the difference that specialised support makes for local men and their partners,” Ashley said.
“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in our community and nationally, with 70 Australian men newly diagnosed every day.
“The Long Run is the biggest online event in Australia raising awareness for men and families affected by prostate cancer, and I’d love to local people sign up to take part in or sponsor my campaign.”
Participants in the month-long campaign run, walk, or ride 72km – or a distance of their choice – to raise positive awareness on social media and in the community.
“Every dollar raised goes into life-changing research, awareness and support, funding better treatments and closing the survival gap for regional men,” Ashley said.
“I see the difference it makes – helping men navigate their treatment and manage the many side effects of prostate cancer including the sleepless nights, the ongoing medical appointments, and fear for the future.”
BRHS chief executive Robyn Hayles congratulated Ashley for her continued participation in The Long Run.
“Ashley is well known across East Gippsland for her work as a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse in our Oncology Unit. She does an amazing job raising awareness of prostate cancer in our community,” she said.
PCFA chief executive officer Anne Savage urged local businesses and community leaders to get involved.
“The Long Run is a great way to inspire community action in the fight against our most common cancer,” she said.
“We’d love to see people signing up or sponsoring Ashley. Our ultimate goal is to help make prostate cancer history.”
The PCFA hopes to raise $1 million for research, awareness and support through The Long Run.
