Racking up kilometres for breast cancer
Karla Blight plans to walk 5km each weekday this month Photo: Jack Malcolm.
“It means a lot to me to try and help others.”
Karla Blight has had the “privilege” of supporting her North Island-based friend, Kim Innes, who had to get her head shaved after she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
She also lost her father Allan Dyson to throat cancer in the UK more than a year ago.
The Richmond resident has embarked on her second solo mission to walk at least 100km in May to raise $1000 for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.
She says Kim, whose cancer is now in remission, and her late father were her inspiration.
“I think we need a cure for all sorts of cancer, and I think the more money we can raise, and make awareness, it can hopefully make other people’s lives a little easier.
“Depending on where the money goes, whether it’s respite care for families or any kind of treatments or medications. Kim always supports me, so she has already donated, and she always comments on my Facebook posts and tries to get people to donate as well.”
Karla, who is a regular walker in the Richmond Hills, says she planned to walk roughly 5km each day and up to 12km on Saturdays to achieve her 100km milestone. She has established a Givealittle page for people to donate to her cause.
“I just think that it’s a privilege to do it, I’m lucky that I’m well, but, you know, you just got to think about others sometimes,” she says.
“I know money is tight for everybody, but just a couple of dollars here and there makes a big difference.”