South Australians are being encouraged to show their support for young people living with cancer on National Bandanna Day, Friday 30 October, by buying a bandanna or donating online.
National Bandanna Day is CanTeen’s annual fundraising and awareness campaign and this year aims to raise $1.25 million.
“Every day 63 young people have their world absolutely turned upside down by cancer – whether it’s their own diagnosis or cancer in their family,” said CanTeen CEO Peter Orchard.
“Through CanTeen, young people can access specialist treatment, learn to cope with the impact cancer has on their life and connect with others their own age, who’ve been through similar cancer experiences.
“That’s why a CanTeen bandanna has become such a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for the young people we work with.” Mr Orchard said.
Now in its 21st year, National Bandanna Day has become a time for the Australian community to show their support for young people living with cancer.
Since starting, Australians have raised more than $30 million enabling CanTeen to provide more than 60,000 opportunities for young people affected by cancer to gain support.
In 2015 National Bandanna Day aims to raise vital funds to help CanTeen deliver youth specific support services, including:
- Highly regarded peer support programs where young people living with cancer can meet and support each other, develop skills to cope with cancer and have some fun
- World-leading online support including a 24/7 online community, information and 7 day access to CanTeen counsellors
- Free and confidential counselling services
- Specialist, age appropriate medical treatment and support for young cancer patients
- Youth-specific resources to guide young people through the challenge of cancer
“Without support, young people affected by cancer are much more likely to experience high levels of psychosocial distress, which can manifest itself in dark thoughts about suicide and self-harm, drug or alcohol abuse or other risky behaviours.
Funds raised through National Bandanna Day will support young people like Melissa, who was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer in September 2014 at 22 years of age. Now 23, Melissa was cleared of cancer just over 3 months ago. Melissa explains that although she is cancer free for the moment, the nature of her cancer means that it is highly likely to return. Despite the daunting prognosis, Melissa remains an upbeat and positive young woman who enjoys the company of her friends and identical twin sister, Lauren. Melissa is looking forward to volunteering for CanTeen in Rundle Mall this National Bandanna Day.
Every bandanna sold this October strikes a blow against the impact of cancer. Bandannas are also available for sale throughout South Australian Woolworths stores.
For more information about Bandanna Day head to the CanTeen website.
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