Tasmanians of all ages participated in today's Women in Super Mother's Day Classic fun run and walk at the Queen's Domain in Hobart. The annual event is an important fundraiser for breast cancer research and a great way for the community to get active while showing their support for this worthy cause.
The Mother's Day Classic is now in its 16th year and raised $19.8 million for breast cancer research projects across Australia.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Australia. Almost every day a Tasmanian woman is diagnosed with breast cancer.
Many participants in the Mother's Day Classic may be personally affected by breast cancer, or may have lost a loved one to the disease. By joining in the 8 km or 4 km run, or the 4 km walk, participants are not only improving their own fitness and wellbeing, but also showing their support for people touched by breast cancer.
Thanks to research into breast cancer prevention, treatment and cure, five-year survival rates are at nearly 90 per cent. Funds raised through events such as the Mother's Day Classic will hopefully contribute to even better outcomes for breast cancer survivors in the future.
I congratulate all participants for their enthusiasm and commitment in completing today's event, and their efforts to raise funds for breast cancer research.
Fundraising for the Mother's Day Classic 2014 closes on Friday 16 May, so there is still time to contribute. To donate, visit www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/donate.