Editorial: PLAY4BCNA Round

Kirsten Pilatti – CEO, Breast Cancer Network Australia

Thank you to everyone for getting behind Breast Cancer Network Australia and our ‘PLAY4BCNA Pink Sports Day’ Round over Mother’s Day weekend. How amazing it is to be back to club footy!

Every year in Australia more than 20,000 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer. 

That’s 55 people every day that hear those life changing words, ‘you have breast cancer’ and these diagnoses have a ripple effect that flows through family, friends, sporting clubs and communities.

Your participation and support this weekend shows wonderful visual support for families in your clubs and community affected by breast cancer, whilst raising vital funds to help BCNA work to inform, support, connect and represent these Australians and ensure they can access the very best treatment and care appropriate to their needs.

The COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions of the last 12 months have had a devastating effect on so many businesses and families in our communities and for many Australians that were diagnosed with breast cancer during this time, they had to face receiving their diagnosis and treatment alone. 

BCNA worked incredibly hard to ensure they had access to up-to-date information and support through this challenging time and our helpline, online network, podcasts, and resources had record usage, access, and downloads which we know provided the right information at the right time, when these people needed it most.

Sporting organisations were not immune to the far-reaching damage and impacts of COVID-19, and like you, we are thrilled to see everyone getting back together and onto the ovals, courts and into the clubrooms again. 

Many of you have hosted a PLAY4BCNA Pink Sports Day before and know how much your community enjoys ‘pinking up’ and getting involved both on and off the playing arena. 

I can’t wait to get around to many clubs and see you all pinked up!

Thanks so much for your support and we wish your clubs much success and enjoyment this season.

And finally, to anyone who has been affected by breast cancer – know that we are here for you every step of the way.