AKD’s annual ‘Pink Up October’ initiative has raised more than $176,000 for the McGrath Foundation, far exceeding their target of $100,000. This takes the total raised over the past two years to more than $250,000, contributing vital funds to this valuable cause. Source: Timberbiz
With breast cancer the most diagnosed cancer in Australia, AKD CEO Shane Vicary is extremely proud of what has been achieved, knowing that every cent is going directly to support those in need,
“It is likely that breast cancer has or will touch our lives in some way over our lifetime, whether it be a mother, a wife, a sister, a friend or a co-worker,” he said.
“Raising over $176,000 is a huge effort and we have been blown away by the generosity of people and how our team, industry, customers, suppliers and our communities have got behind the cause”.
The AKD community went all out this year to ‘Pink Up’ in support of the cause, from pink shoelaces to pink mohawks, all sites added something unique to the fundraising effort.
However, the focus is more than just raising money, with the team committed to raising awareness of the need for breast health understanding and regular screening for the eligible population.
“Being aware of breast cancer is not just for October, it is important that this is something you think about regularly,” Mr Vicary said.
“Breast cancer doesn’t care how old you are, where you live or what background you are from.
“Early detection of breast cancer while it is still small and confined to the breast provides the best chance for treatment to be effective,” he said.
“It’s so important that if you find a lump or notice any changes to your breasts that you seek medical attention straight away. AKD hopes that our activities will motivate people to go and make that appointment and go and get checked.”
McGrath Foundation CEO Holly Masters said the Foundation was focused on a future where the free support of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse is available to every person who needs one.
“Our mission is to ensure that no one goes through breast cancer without the care of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse,” she said.
“Right now, we need 79 more nurses to meet that goal, all while continuing to fund our existing cohort of nurses.”
McGrath Breast Care Nurses provide vital physical, psychological, and emotional support to individuals and their families experiencing breast cancer from the time of diagnosis and throughout treatment.
“While the support of our nurses is free to patients we rely on donations from the community and corporate partners to make this a reality,” Ms Masters said.
“We are extremely grateful to AKD for partnering with us and providing this funding.”
AKD would like to thank their team, customers, suppliers, communities and shareholders for their efforts and contributions to this year’s Pink Up.
“We are extremely proud and grateful,” Mr Vicary said
