Founded by Yvonne Moon OAM, RoCan began 19 years ago when her friend passed away with ovarian cancer. Back then there was very little known about this disease, labelled the Silent Killer, women did not and still do not have an early detection test for ovarian cancer. Yvonne decided enough was enough and set up the charity to fund research efforts towards the disease. So in memory of those that have passed, and to support those who are currently suffering, supporters of RoCan are taking to the roads, riding from Campbelltown in Sydney to Williamstown in western Melbourne to raise funds for ovarian cancer.
The Ride
Thirty riders are expected to make the journey from the western suburbs of Sydney, down to Victoria, on a route that will take in some of the country's most beautiful scenery. "This is the 20th year the ride has been run, with the majority of riders returning from previous years" says John Boyle of the Williamstown Rotary Club. Whilst the riders in the bunch aren't out to set any records, they look forward to the challenging route which is expected to amass in excess of 5,000m of climbing
The Story so Far
To date, the impact RoCan has had has been immense with the charity raising over one million dollars. Yvonne details "I am mindful of where the funds we raise go to, I meet with all organisations to discuss so that I am satisfied the funds raised are used wisely and not put into a pool of funds." Examples of the funds in use include the purchase a block of land where Yvonne is planning to build a Cancer Wellness Centre in the Western Suburbs of Melbourne.
The Cancer Wellness Centre will accommodate up to 8 families, whilst their loved ones are receiving treatment. It is envisaged that patients will mainly come from Regional areas. The facility is also scheduled to provide services such as yoga, relaxation, legal and financial advice, music health and nutrition. Funds raised during the "Ride for Life" event are expected to go towards the new centre, which is expected to completed in 2021.
For more information or to donate, head to rocan.com
