The final touches of preparation are being made for this year’s edition of Walking Stars, a fun-packed fundraising event that brings a festival like atmosphere to Melbourne’s iconic cityscape this December. We have great news: It’s not too late to register for this year’s event.
Walking Stars is a challenge that emphasises the fun in fundraising. When you register for Walking Stars, you’ll be celebrating those who have faced cancer, while raising vital funds that will support the 34,000 Victorians diagnosed with cancer each year.
While participants travel across the 21km course at their own pace, they’ll be decked out in their brightest clothes and accessories. It’s a way to shine a light on the ways cancer affects us all. Each Walking Star has their own strong personal motivation for taking part, including Michelle.
Michelle’s dad Charles was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in June of last year, and sadly passed away soon after in November 2021. This incredibly difficult time was made even tougher by the pandemic.
“It was quite a quick journey from diagnosis to him passing. When he was diagnosed it was pretty hard. He didn’t speak English very well. He’s been in Australia for 40 odd years and ran his own business. Still, being an elderly gentleman and being thrown into that – it was very hard for him to comprehend and understand everything. When he was at hospital, nobody was allowed in there at all,” Michelle says.
Participation in Walking Stars followed on from Michelle joining Relay For Life events, after the passing of two of her husband’s beloved aunties to cancer.
“We signed up to Walking Stars when dad was still alive. He knew we were going to do the walk,” Michelle recalls. As well as family being the reason why Michelle takes part, she is also joined by a few relatives on the night. “The last time I did Walking Stars, I did it with my sister, my two nieces and my best friend. We all did it together.”
The event raises funds that will help cancer research, support, and prevention projects, and Michelle’s efforts last year raised an impressive $3,000. This was achieved thanks to social media posts, as well as QR codes in her work kitchen directing people to her fundraising page.
“I was expecting something like $10 or $20 from some of our family friends. When you start seeing family friends donating $100 or $200 it’s like, wow!” Michelle beams.
For Walking Stars 2022, Michelle has already enlisted another special Walking Star.
“I’ve already signed up. I’ve signed my daughter up this time as well. She is 13. She was a bit iffy about it last time and said, ‘Maybe next year.’ She came to the pre-event with my husband and enjoyed that. She has signed up to do it with me this year.”
This incredible event sees thousands of Victorians walk 21km into the night in support of the 34,000 Victorians who are diagnosed with cancer each year.
Join the galaxy of Walking Stars who shine bright in colourful clothing, bright lights in this spectacular half marathon walking event.
Every dollar raised goes to vital cancer research, prevention programs and support services and brings us closer to a cancer free future.
Walking Stars is back on 3 December 2022. Don't miss out on registration, visit walkingstars.cancervic.org.au and register now. Festivities kick off at 5pm, with the walk commencing at 8pm.