Cancer Council supporter walks more than 6,000km to raise funds. Melbourne teacher Michael Mitchell is a man who has really gone out of his way to help fight cancer - in fact, he's gone thousands of kilometres out of his way.
The avid bushwalker has already traveled more than 4,950 km as he walks from Cape York in Queensland to Wilson's Promontory in Victoria to raise funds for the Cancer Council.
Mr Mitchell is urging all Cancer Council supporters help him on his Great Australian Cancer Bushwalk by donating to the event or raising funds through their own unique fundraising activities.
"I'm calling on every Australian to consider what they can do to raise funds," Mr Mitchell said.
"Not everyone can walk from one side of the country to the other, but by joining together, we can all do our bit," he said.
With one Australian diagnosed with cancer every 5 minutes, Mr Mitchell said that raising funds to fight the disease should be on everyone's agenda.
"I've seen friends, family and students face cancer, so I know just how important this cause is," Mr Mitchell said.
"I'm traveling 6000 km on foot, but it seems easy compared to the journey some cancer patients endure, and I hope this bush walk will galvanise people into action," he said.
Mr Mitchell said that it's easy for anyone to help raise funds.
"One of the simplest ways you can make a difference is by making a secure online donation at www.thegreatcancerwalk.com.au," Mr Mitchell said.
"It doesn't matter whether you can give a little or a lot - I can assure you that every contribution will make a difference," he said.
"You might also like to organise your own fundraising event to support the event. I've had people organise walk-a-thons, disco nights, crazy hair days - it's been fantastic to see how inventive people can be in helping to raise funds," he said.
Proceeds of the Great Australian Cancer Bushwalk will be donated to the Cancer Council. All funds raised will support lifesaving cancer research, education and support programs.
Monday 23 February, 2009