In Australia, more than 60,000 people live with a blood cancer, including leukaemia, myeloma or lymphoma and every day another 35 people are diagnosed.
The Leukaemia Foundation’s Light The Night is the only event in Australia that brings together the blood cancer community of patients, families, friends, carers and medical professionals to support each other, while raising vital funds for research to beat blood cancer.
The Foundation is now calling for volunteers in Mount Gambier to support local families affected by blood cancer by hosting a Light The Night event this October.
Now in its 11th year, the inspiring event includes an evening lantern ceremony and walk, which will be held in around 140 locations across Australia, including flagship events in every major city.
Leukaemia Foundation chief executive Bill Petch said sadly most of us know someone who has been affected by blood cancer.
“It is one of Australia’s most prolific cancers and unfortunately diagnosis rates are on the rise,” he said.
“As well as giving the community the chance to come together and walk in solidarity, hosting a Light the Night event is a rewarding way to show your support and help to raise funds to ensure local families affected by blood cancer receive the support they need.”
Everyone who registers to attend a Light The Night event will be able to select the colour lantern representing their place in the blood cancer community.
While gold lanterns signify the remembrance of a lost loved one, blue lanterns are to show your support, while white will signify your own blood cancer journey.
To find out more about becoming a Light The Night host visit lightthenight.org.au/get-involved or contact 1800 620 420.
