Mayors from the South of New Zealand are rallying community support for the upcoming Pink Ribbon Street Appeal, emphasizing its crucial role in combating breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ has proudly received support from the mayors of Clutha, Southland, and Invercargill, all vocal in rallying their communities to contribute to the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal scheduled for next week.
On the 27th and 28th of October, a force of 10,000 volunteers will mobilize across New Zealand, undertaking a critical fundraising drive to support breast cancer research, awareness initiatives, and patient assistance programs.
Expressing his endorsement, Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan stated, “The Pink Ribbon Street Appeal is a fantastic way to keep our wāhine healthy and strong and a chance for all of us to show support.”
In a similar vein, Southland Mayor Rob Scott emphasized the community aspect: “We all know someone that has been affected by breast cancer, and every day nine women are diagnosed. Early detection is the key, so let’s talk about it, raise awareness, support each other, and support our communities. I would encourage anyone to get involved in the street appeal, or at the very least, have a conversation with your loved ones.”
Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark, speaking from personal experience, shared: “Having had both skin and thyroid cancer, the main message is early screening is the only way to avoid a miserable outcome.”
Ah-Leen Rayner, the chief executive of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, called for broad participation: “We’re asking everyone in Southland to show some love for Kiwis affected by breast cancer by donating to our Pink Ribbon Street Appeal, and we’re so grateful to have Mayors Cadogan, Scott, and Clark join our call.”
She further highlighted the foundation’s independence and reliance on these charitable acts: “As a charity that doesn’t receive any government funding, it’s only thanks to the generosity of New Zealanders that we can carry out our life-saving work. Your donations will bring us closer to our vision of zero deaths from breast cancer.”
Annually, roughly 240 women in the Southern region confront a breast cancer diagnosis. Funds amassed during the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal are instrumental for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, fueling progressive research, educational campaigns stressing early detection, and comprehensive patient care during treatment and recovery phases.
The foundation welcomes donations during the appeal, with volunteer collectors poised with pink buckets throughout the region on the specified dates. Contributions can also be made digitally at bcf.org.nz/streetappeal23, broadening the scope of participation in this life-affirming effort.