A local doctor is putting the call out to get moving this September in a bid to raise funds for research, prevention and support services for cancer patients across Australia.
Dr Ash Bowden, also known to the community as Doctor Do More, is on a mission to get people exercising and moving more to improve their health and happiness.
The 2021 September #MoveAgainstCancer Step Challenge encourages people to record their number of steps over the whole month in teams to win prizes.
Participation costs $10, with all money going to Cancer Council and an array of prizes for 2021 steppers up for grabs which have been donated by local businesses to incentivise participants.
After participating in the challenge last year, Bowden said he wants this year to be bigger and better.
“Last year, we raised over $13,500 for Cancer Council and had over 800 people involved,” Bowden said.
“It is such a simple, achievable challenge for people to participate in.
“When I’m asked, ‘How do I go from doing nothing active to something?’ the best answer is to start with a walk.
“Moving more has unbelievable benefits on your health – reduced risk of cancers, reduced risk of cardiorespiratory disease, improved cognition and more.
“Importantly, it has a huge impact on our mental health, something we can all relate to.
“This pandemic has caused so much stress and anxiety, with loss of incomes and so much uncertainty.
“Getting outside and staying active massively helps your headspace, helping us to stay positive as we move forward.”
The challenge, which starts on Wednesday, September 1 and finishes on Thursday, September 30, includes prize categories for: the individual most steps; most steps as a team; biggest fundraiser; best team name; and some mid-challenge events.
Community Relations Coordinator at Cancer Council NSW Central Coast, Jaynie Moloney, said the Council was ‘so excited’ about the return of the community event.
“[We] are so happy it is something that can be continued safely within the current restrictions,” Moloney said.
“As well as the positive health benefits gained from those participating, the funds raised will support local cancer patients and fund critical research.
“Cancer patients are telling us they are feeling more isolated than ever due to Covid19, so our local support services have never been more important.”
The event’s major sponsor, Australian Dental & Implant Group which has a practice at Empire Bay Dental, said they were thrilled to be involved.
Practice Principal and leading dentist, Dr Ned Restom, is a cancer survivor and is keen to get involved with initiatives to raise awareness and funds to fight cancer.
Other sponsors and supporters include Cancer Rehabilitation and Lymphatic Solutions and Bounce Back from Breast Cancer led by Kate Perkins, Corporate Merchandise Australia, Reality Marketing, Slippery coco, Activate Foods, Riverside Medical Imaging, Five Star Day Spa, and MediRecruit.
Bowden suggests those interested use any type of activity watch or smartphone to track their steps.
For more information or to sign up to the challenge, visit: www.doitforcancer.com.au/event/move-against-cancer.
Maisy Rae