This year’s Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run, presented by Queensland X-Ray has sold out in a record three weeks with 23,000 people set to hit the streets of Brisbane on March 9.
But those who missed out on joining the city’s Sea of Pink can still support the fight against breast cancer by enlisting as volunteers along the 5km city course.
Thirty-nine-year-old Brisbane breast cancer survivor and yoga teacher Danique Hanson is calling on Queenslanders to join Mater Foundation’s legion of volunteers.
“I am encouraging people to volunteer in the fun run because it’s more than just a run – it’s a statement of support, solidarity, and hope,” Mrs Hanson said.
“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023, I saw first-hand how vital awareness, early detection, and research can save lives.
“Cancer can be a really isolating experience, and events like this bring our community together to honour those we’ve lost, celebrate survivors, and raise crucial funds to ensure better outcomes for future generations.
“Whether you walk, run, support or volunteer, your participation makes a real difference.
“It’s a way to stand beside those affected and remind them that they’re never alone in this fight.”
Mrs Hanson, co-owner of Elements Academy, was diagnosed with stage two HER2-negative breast cancer.
“I found a small lump in my right breast while I was in the shower,” Mrs Hanson said.
“I had cysts in the past, and part of me thought it would just be another cyst.”
She said following scans and a biopsy, doctors revealed the “shocking news” she had an invasive form of breast cancer.
After having a lumpectomy, Mrs Hanson had a double mastectomy and expander reconstruction with Mater Private Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Diana Kennedy.
“I stayed at Mater for seven days after my double mastectomy, and the staff were incredibly supportive and so caring,” Mrs Hanson said.
“The true heroes, of course, are the breast care nurses.
“Their check-in during my stay, plus phone calls all along the way, really came just at the times I needed them. They are honestly angels on this earth.
“Surviving breast cancer has changed my life in more ways than I can count – some good, some incredibly hard.
Mrs Hanson said she carried scars, both seen and unseen, and thanked her husband Rhys Miller for being her “biggest support”.
“My scars remind me that I’m still here. I’ve learned not to wait because life can change in the blink of an eye, and not to take the ordinary for granted,” she said.
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas urged those who missed out on joining the fun run to volunteer on the day.
“By volunteering for fun run, you will have the opportunity to be part of this iconic community event, learn new skills, meet new people or use it as a chance to bond with your colleagues, friends or family,” Mr Thomas said.
Volunteer roles include customer service, guiding participants along the course and ensuring they stay hydrated at all times.
“This year we’re hoping to raise more than $1.8m to provide personalised support services and state-of-the-art equipment to better diagnose and treat patients, as well as investing in life-saving breast cancer research at Mater,” Mr Thomas said.
The event is organised by Mater Foundation, with funds from the event will go towards life-saving breast cancer research, as well as services and support for breast cancer patients at Mater hospitals in Brisbane, Springfield, Redlands, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton and Bundaberg.
