This November, thousands of Australians will move for women and families affected by ovarian cancer as Ovarian Cancer Australia launches its fifth annual Workout 4 Women.
Workout 4 Women encourages people to move their bodies every day for 30 days throughout November, in whatever way works for them. Participants can choose a personal challenge of 40km, 80km or 120km and walk, jog, ride or flow their way to the finish, raising funds along the way to help Ovarian Cancer Australia provide critical support for women and families facing ovarian cancer.
Almost 2,000 Australian women were estimated to have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer last year.1 By 2050, annual diagnoses are projected to rise by 58 per cent to approximately 2,822 women, increasing the number of women and families who may need support.2
Funds raised through the Workout 4 Women challenge help Ovarian Cancer Australia provide free specialist ovarian cancer nursing, psychosocial support and practical guidance via telehealth, alongside trusted information, and peer connection for women and families across Australia.
For Anna Gray, Ovarian Cancer Australia Teal Support Program nurse, the impact of this support is something she sees every day through her work with women and families affected by ovarian cancer. Having supported many women through different stages of their ovarian cancer experience, Anna, believes initiatives like Workout 4 Women are an important way for Australians to stand behind those affected, while helping ensure specialist support continues to be available when it is needed most.
"An ovarian cancer diagnosis can bring so much uncertainty, not only for the woman diagnosed but for the people around her. Having someone there who understands what you're going through, who can answer questions and help you navigate what comes next, can make a real difference," said Anna.
Debbie Shiell, CEO of Ovarian Cancer Australia, said Workout 4 Women is a simple way for Australians to turn everyday movement into meaningful support.
"Every kilometre moved and every dollar raised helps ensure women and families affected by ovarian cancer can access specialist support when they need it," said Ms Shiell.
"Whether you walk, run, ride or roll out a yoga mat, you can take part in a way that works for you. It's about moving for something bigger than yourself, showing your support for women and families affected by ovarian cancer that they don't have to face it alone, while helping build continued awareness and advocacy needed to keep ovarian cancer on the national agenda."
Registrations for Workout 4 Women are now open, with Australians encouraged to sign up as an individual or team and start fundraising ahead of the challenge.
