Caitlyn Summers, from the regional outback town of Richmond, is leading the charge to help raise awareness of prostate cancer by joining The Long Run this September.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) campaign calls on Australians to run, walk or ride 72km throughout Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness and funds for research and support.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the region, with one Australian man diagnosed every 22 minutes.
Mrs Summers has decided to increase the challenge and commit to 100km, and is encouraging the community to get behind the cause and help raise awareness of the disease.
"My dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer and had a radical prostatectomy last year - so this is for him," she said.
"PCFA do an amazing job so I wanted to help raise awareness and funds for their services.
"This is a challenge everyone can get behind - it's just 72km throughout the month - to raise funds and change the future of prostate cancer locally and across the country."
Mrs Summers encouraged men to also use the time to learn more about their risks and testing options.
"Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to think about your risk factors and testing options. Men over 50 without a family history should be speaking with their GP about PSA testing, or men over 40 with a family history.
"There is no shame or embarrassment about putting your health first. Early detection can save lives."
Locals can support the cause via www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/caitlynsummers or register at www.thelongrun.org.au.
Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Anne Savage, commended Mrs Summers for making a difference.
"Community action is key to cancer control, helping us to raise awareness of Australia's most commonly diagnosed cancer and encourage early detection," Ms Savage said.
"Importantly, The Long Run helps us support men and their families, providing vital funding for clinical trials and PCFA prostate cancer nurses.
"Caitlyn is an inspiration - demonstrating that together we can make a difference, helping love go the distance against prostate cancer."
Several thousand eager runners, walkers and cyclists are expected to join The Long Run this September, with a total goal of $1 million for research, support services and awareness.
Go to www.thelongrun.org.au to register.
