Over 20 years, the 24 Hour Fight Against Cancer Macarthur has evolved into being much more than a charity.
That is still its main mission, to raise funds to ensure that we have a world class cancer therapy centre right here in Macarthur.
Some of the money raised by 24 Hour also goes to the oncology ward and the children’s cancer unit at Campbelltown Hospital, as well as the palliative care unit and outreach service at Camden Hospital.
24 Hour also prides itself on the fact that every cent raised will go towards cancer services locally – there is no CEO on a big salary, no committee expenses, nothing.
From chairman Warren Morrison down it’s all volunteer work, done in the knowledge that this dreadful disease will impact all of us at some stage.
And that’s why Mr Morrison is pictured above applauding at this morning’s launch of another year of fundraising.
He’s not applauding himself, no. He’s asking those present, the 24 Hour volunteers, sponsors and other supporters, to applaud themselves for their contribution to a charity that has made such a difference over 20 years.
In those two decades, 24 Hour has raised $5.36 million, all used to make sure that any local who develops cancer get the best treatment in the world in their own backyard.
To raise those funds, 24 Hours has also enriched our community in a meaningful way.
It’s one of the few charities that has developed several major fund raising initiatives that have become popular community events in their own right.
From Paul Nunnari’s 24 Hour Fred’s push that receives a hero’s welcome in local schools, to the Gabe O’Flaherty memorial golf day at Camden Lakeside and the classic car and bike cruise, to name just a few, they have become entrenched in the local community calendar every year.
And then there’s the big one: the 24 Hour Fight Against Cancer Macarthur weekend at the Campbelltown Stadium athletics facility – on October 12-13 this year – which brings everyone in the community together for a great cause.
If you would like to get involved in any way, visit the 24 Hour website or their Facebook page.
