The 2023 Bundaberg-Fraser Coast Relay For Life event officially launched this week with this year’s Face of Relay, Wayne Morden, announced.
Wayne was diagnosed with Follicular Lymphoma in 2018 and through a combination of treatments was able to manage the cancer to a liveable point by late 2021.
“There is no cure for Follicular Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, and I will require further treatments as it returns,” he said.
“But I live with it and refuse to let it rule my life”.
Wayne is president of the Bundaberg Cycling Club and his cancer journey has spurred the club on to raise thousands of dollars for Cancer Council Queensland through riding challenges and the annual Cycling Spectacular.
“The younger members of our club were the primary instigators of the fundraising,” he said.
“They wanted to support me in my cancer journey, and it has now evolved into an annual club community engagement program.”
Wayne said his decision to step into the spotlight as Face of Relay for 2023 was a way be a small part of something much bigger and inspire others to continue their fight against cancer.
Since Relay for Life began in Bundaberg in 2004, the community has raised over 1.8 million dollars for Cancer Council QLD.
This is despite floods, drought, fires, rises in cost of living and a global pandemic.
With the combined force of the Fraser Coast last year, this annual event was able to raise $94,839 for Cancer Council QLD.
In 2023 the target is $100, 000 and the volunteer organising committee are hopeful to be able to surpass this target.
Relay For Life is an event where teams keep a baton moving in a relay-style walk or run all day to raise funds for Cancer Council Queensland’s vital work in cancer research, prevention, and support services.
To register a team, volunteer, or find out more about Relay For Life, please visit www.relayforlife.org.au or call 1300 65 65 85.
For more information about Cancer Council Queensland, please visit, www.cancerqld.org.au or call 13 11 20 for information and support
Congratulations Wayne, you are a superstar.