Dee set to run to help fight breast cancer

On September 21, Dee Johnson of Ettalong Beach will don her joggers and join fellow members of the Woy Woy Runners to take place in the inaugural Woy Woy local Carman’s Fun Run, to be held in Sydney to raise vital funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).

The cause is close to Johnson’s heart.

She will run in support of her mother-in-law, Brenda Logan, who is battling ongoing cancers and her friend Nic Falconer, who founded the running group and passed away just last year from breast cancer.

“My mother-in-law had breast cancer and then bowel cancer and is now battling tumours which have spread throughout her body, including her bones, spine and skull,” Johnson said.

“She has recently undergone radiation therapy and we are waiting for the results.”

Johnson said her mother-in-law, an active member in the theatre and arts community for more than 50 years, maintained a positive attitude.

The death of Falconer, she said, came as a blow to every member of the running group, of which she was a founder.

“Nic had had breast cancer and we thought she was in remission,” Johnson said.

“Just last September she ran an ultra-marathon.

“Then in October we were informed she was in hospital and a week later she passed away.

“She was an incredible runner and initiated many of our regular runs, including our yearly challenge to run up Blackwall Mountain.

“The entire running community is in mourning.”

Johnson herself started running with the group about two years ago.

“It’s the social aspect I particularly enjoy,” she said.

“They are such lovely people.”

“We enter quite a lot of races and there’s something on just about every day.”

Johnson runs twice a week, sometimes more.

She and fellow runners from the group are looking forward to the September run.

“If we get to help raise funds for such an important cause and have fun at the same time, that’s a double win,” she said.

On September 21, people all ages and abilities will don pink clothes and walk, jog, or run, choosing a 5K, 10K, or half marathon course, or joining the iconic 5K Pink Lady Walk, starting at Metcalfe Park in Pyrmont.

Breast Cancer Network Australia and naming sponsor Carman’s Kitchen has partnered with event organiser Sole Motive to bring the community-driven event to Sydney, following its overwhelming success in Melbourne.

 Kirsten Pilatti, CEO of Breast Cancer Network Australia, said the event played an important role in raising both funds and awareness for Australians affected by breast cancer.

“Carman’s Fun Run is about so much more than a run, it’s a win for both those who participate and a win for all Australians affected by breast cancer,” she said.

“In light of this, I’d love to encourage everyone to take up this challenge – whether running, walking or fundraising.

“The step you take today can become a hugely rewarding experience for you and an even more meaningful contribution for the 21,194 Australians who are going to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone.”

Sole Motive has been empowering the running community since its inception in 1980, and has raised more than $24M for more than 450 charities.

CEO Lisa Holmes said Carman’s Fun Run to Sydney would be a powerful example of the positive intersection between fitness and fundraising.

 “We are committed to making a difference, and no matter how big or small, running is always a step in the right direction,” she said.

“It’s a pleasure to partner with Breast Cancer Network Australia and Carman’s to bring one of Melbourne’s favourite fundraising events to Sydney and support Australian women affected by breast cancer.

“This event will not only raise vital funds and awareness, but also inspire an active, connected lifestyle for everyone involved.”

Register for the run or donate at carmansfunrun.com.au/