What do media personality and Real Housewives of Sydney star Sally Obermeder, singer-actress Samantha Jade, and journalist and presenter Shelly Horton have in common? They are all thrilled to be involved in the inaugural SWIISH WALK4BCNA, which aims to raise funds and increase awareness around the important work of Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).
Obermeder and sister Maha Corbett, co-founders of the renowned global wellness brand SWIISH, announced the event in June. "As a breast cancer survivor myself, we are so proud to create this SWIISH event in support of BCNA," Obermeder says. "The SWIISH WALK4BCNA is an opportunity for us to come together as a community and show unwavering support for those affected by breast cancer."
Obermeder – who has just been announced as one of the Real Housewives of Sydney – has dedicated herself to promoting health and wellness since having overcome over her own experience with breast cancer, and she is now on a mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of other people affected by this disease.
It's also an issue close to home for Jade. After losing her mum, Jacqui Gibbs, to cancer in 2014, Jade has been a passionate advocate for cancer causes and will be performing on stage at SWIISH WALK4BCNA.
"Cancer is something that has affected me and my family personally," Jade says. "Backing organisations who work to improve the support, care, and treatment of those with cancer is really important to me."
On Sunday October 15 at Metcalfe Park in Sydney, the line up promises a day full of action and fun, with MC Shelly Horton running the day, and food vendors and Aussie BBQ by Bakers Delight, health and fitness retailers, SWIISH and BCNA merchandise, children's activities, yoga, massage, and other wellness activations including a chill out zone by Red Energy. BCNA's signature Mini-Field of Women offers a space for participants to pay tribute to those affected by breast cancer.
The SWIISH WALK4BCNA invites participants of all ages and fitness levels to join in this family-friendly event. Whether walking, running, or simply standing in solidarity, every step taken is a symbol of support for those who have faced breast cancer. The event will feature a picturesque route through Metcalfe Park with a 4km or 8km option, offering breathtaking views of Sydney's skyline.
The event aims to raise awareness around the importance of early detection and the challenges faced by those affected by breast cancer and their families. With a staggering average of 57 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer every day, the event's significance cannot be understated. In 2023, an estimated 20,428 women and 212 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
The SWIISH WALK4BCNA has set an ambitious goal of raising $150,000 to support BCNA's vital work in advocacy and ensuring the very best access to care, treatment, information, and support for Australians affected by breast cancer. Participants can register their teams for the event at the SWIISH Walk 4 BCNA website here.
The SWIISH WALK4BCNA is not only a celebration of strength and resilience but also a call for volunteers to join the cause. Volunteering at BCNA events offers a fun and flexible way to contribute to supporting individuals impacted by breast cancer. Anyone interested can sign up as an Events Volunteer