Australian Cancer Research Foundation’s (ACRF) 60km In May challenge kicks off this May, calling on Australians to walk or run, to raise vital funds for lifesaving cancer research.
This May, Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) is calling on Australians to move for a powerful cause, funding vital cancer research, by joining its 60km in May fitness fundraiser.
For 58-year-old Alan Fonseca and his three daughters, the challenge takes on a deeply personal meaning; every kilometre walked is a tribute. A tribute to love, loss and to the fierce determination that no other family should have to go through what they have.
Alan lost his beloved wife, Janice, to a rare and aggressive form of cancer in 2015, just a year after her diagnosis. She was 46.
Now, ten years on, Alan is taking on 60km in May, completing the month-long challenge in memory of Janice.
“Janice’s diagnosis and subsequent passing came as a huge shock to us. Nothing like this had ever registered on our radar and it took me quite a while to accept that it was reality. Our lives had changed forever,” Alan says.
From Heartbreak to Hope
Janice’s diagnosis in May 2014 completely blindsided both she and Alan. Despite years of persistent symptoms, Janice believed it was nothing more than dietary issues and food allergies. However, a precautionary scan revealed the worst – a rare cancer known as signet cell ring, which had already spread right through her omentum which attaches to many of your internal organs.
“To be honest, we were both extremely naïve to cancer and knew nothing about chemo, the stages, primary location etc. Despite the diagnosis, we were always extremely positive and just believed it would be a tough journey with the treatment, but we always thought she would be fine,” Alan says.
Over 12 harrowing months, Janice underwent gruelling treatment and remained the emotional centre of her family. She passed away just weeks before her 47th birthday. Alan witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the disease and the immense emotional toll it takes on families and loved one.
This loss profoundly impacted Alan, shifting his perspective on life. “My outlook on life completely changed,” he explains. “I used to be more conservative and very focused on the future. Now I’m more the opposite and completely focused on the present and trying to maximise my time with the girls.”
Why 60km in May Matters
For Alan, 60km in May is more than just a fitness challenge — it’s a deeply personal mission. One that channels grief into purpose.
ACRF’s 60km In May invites Australians of all ages and fitness levels to walk or run 60 kilometres throughout the month. By participating, individuals contribute to ACRF’s mission to fund innovative cancer research projects across Australia, driving breakthroughs in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
“Janice always believed there’d be a cure one day. Whilst this wasn’t in her lifetime, organisations like ACRF are doing everything possible to make this a reality – for someone else’s wife, mum, or daughter,” Alan says.
ACRF CEO Kerry Strydom knows that every step and every dollar donated can add up to millions of dollars’ worth of impact.
“Initiatives like 60km In May allow ACRF to continue backing the most promising and progressive projects aswe strive to reach our vision of a world without cancer. Whether you walk or run on your own, in a team or with your colleagues, , you’ll be supporting Australia’s best cancer researchers to find better treatments, and ways to prevent or detect cancer earlier.”
“Devastatingly, almost everyone has been or will be touched by cancer in some way. 60km In May
Participants, just like Alan and his daughters, can help ensure more loved ones don’t miss out on vital research by raising crucial funds.”
Join Alan and thousands of Australians this May to make a tangible difference towards a world without cancer.
To register for 60km In May visit acrf.com.au
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