Hi there

I’m undertaking the 2022 12 Apostles Gutsy Challenge and trekking 46km over 4 days along the Great Ocean Road to raise awareness and much needed funds for Gastro-Intestinal (GI) cancer research - a cause that is close to my heart and to which I am committed to seeing change.

I was motivated to undertake the Challenge by my beautiful friend, Jeanette ('Nettie), who was diagnosed with GI cancer back in 2013. Until mid 2018 Nettie's cancer was controlled by a combination of medication and surgery.  Sadly, her tumours eventually became inoperable and medication failed to keep them in check. She volunteered to take a trial drug, not just for herself but more so for those that might face a similar battle. 

We had often talked about taking on the Gutsy Challenge together, but unfortunately after fighting with such courage for so long, she passed away in June 2020.

I am undertaking the challenge in Nettie's memory and in the knowledge that funding continuing research leads to new trials and better outcomes for so many people who are, or may one day, face their own G.I. Cancer journey.

Over 28,600 Australians are diagnosed with a GI cancer each year. We have made some substantial advances in the last 30 years, but there is still a long way to go with 39 people dying each day from GI cancer. Clinical trials research is essential to improving treatment options and outcomes for GI cancer patients.

Please support my challenge and make a donation to fund vital GI cancer research, and help give patients and their families hope. Your support can help fund better treatments for people like Nettie.

Thanks so much for your support!

Alison.