A GROUP of more than 50 locals have raised nearly $10,000 and walked over 20km to raise funds for Cancer Council SA.
The team of walkers, calling themselves ‘Finishing the Fight’, walked 22km from Wentworth Road in Cooltong to the Renmark Club earlier this month as part of Cancer Council’s Relay Your Way initiative.
Relay organiser Lauren Charnstrom said she decided to do the walk for her partner’s mother Sharon Skelton.
“My partner’s mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in February, so I wanted to raise some money for her,” she said.
Ms Charnstrom originally set a fundraising goal of $1000, but within three days had already raised $3700.
The team has now raised $9653, with a revised goal of $12,000.
“The amount of money that everyone managed to raise was incredible,” Ms Charnstrom said.
“I think over 50 people ended up doing the walk, and there was another 25 at the Renmark Club when we finished up who wanted to give money.
“It was incredible to have the support of the people who walked with me and everyone who donated.”
Ms Charnstrom, who participated in the Cancer Council’s Relay for Life event last year, said the three-hour walk was physically challenging, but that she was “very proud” of the event and the money that was raised.
“I think Sharon was a bit overwhelmed, but she’s proud,” she said.
“I’m very proud of what we’ve managed to raise.”
Donations are still open to help Ms Charnstrom and her team reach their $12,000 goal.
To donate, visit fundraising.cancer.org.au and search for the Fighting the Fight team.