At the age of 29 a cervical cancer diagnosis turned Sara D’Angelo’s life upside down.
It’s now been 10 years since Ms D’Angelo came through her “toughest challenge” and she’s on a mission to continue helping those who helped her.
The Caroline Springs resident is taking part in this year’s Cancer Council Victoria Walking Stars 21km half marathon.
The non-competitive waking event goes past some of Melbourne’s most prominent landmarks and is one of Cancer Council Victoria’s chief fundraising events.
Ms D’Angelo said her stepson provided added motivation to take on the half marathon, which she will do with his mother, Brooke.
“My stepson was really interested in my cancer diagnosis and in the raising money side of things.
“We’ve been explaining to him how the funds can help certain people get things like new equipment… he actually wants to attend but he’s only eight so we think he’ll struggle with 21km.”
There’s also a deeply personal reason for Ms D’Angelo’s involvement.
“I want to give back. Cancer Council helped me at my hardest time,” she said.
“When I was diagnosed at 29 I was looking to start family.
“I was going to have to have treatment and was going to have impact on fertility.
“Cancer Council really helped me with information… they gave me booklets, leaflets and anything else I needed.”
She said she’s already counting down the days to the walk, which will be held on Saturday, December 7.
“It will be fantastic to be part of the walk. I’m looking forwards to meeting other people and hearing their story of why they’re there.
“It’s a great cause, so I’d encourage everyone to get involved and if you can’t walk, donate.”
To donate to Ms D’Angelo’s cause visit: https://fundraising.cancervic.org.au/fundraisers/SarahDAngelo/walking-stars
