Walking to raise money for cancer patients

Lon Tran. (Supplied)255824_01

Tara Murray

A group of Western Health staff are lacing up their runners to walk 42 kilometres to raise money to help cancer patients.

The group has formed a team for the WalkWest fundraiser, which was set up by Western Health’s foundation team to raise vital funds.

This year’s walk will be held virtually, with participants to walk 42 kilometres over 21 days.

Western Health cares for more 3000 cancer patients every year.

Lon Tran from the hospital day oncology ward decided to set up a team this year.

“I work on the oncology ward and work with cancer patients, so I thought it was a good idea to raise some funds,” she said.

“I looked to get my unit on board and was surprised to see so many other people get on board as well.

“The director of our unit and some of the nursing staff have joined, there are now 11 of us.”

Ms Tran said she was surprised by the amount of money they had so far raised. As of Thursday afternoon they had raised more than $6000.

Personally she wants to raise more than $3000 and is already two-thirds there.

She is also planning to walk double the distance required.

This year when participants log their distances they will check in at iconic western suburbs landmarks and receive badges along the way

“I’m looking to do 84 kilometres,” she said. “As a nurse, I do about five kilometeres a day.

“We just want people to be aware of the event and we’re hoping the money raised can help patients with their treatment and everyday living.”

To donate: www.walkwest.com.au/fundraisers/DAYONC/virtual