Staff and inmates at Macquarie Correctional Centre will run the equivalent of an Olympic marathon in a bid to raise more than $15,000 to help care for men and women experiencing breast cancer.
The 42.2km test of endurance is being held over Easter and will see participants run 212 laps of the centre’s sporting field on their own or as part of a relay team.
Governor Brad Peebles said the money raised will go to The McGrath Foundation’s Breast Care Nurses, which provide support to breast cancer patients and their families from diagnosis through to treatment.
“The McGrath Foundation was chosen as both staff and inmates have been affected by breast cancer – almost 20,000 people a year are diagnosed, and thousands are still losing their lives to this disease,” Mr Peebles said.
“Inmates are largely powerless to do much for loved ones but are genuinely excited by the opportunity to help others via The McGrath Foundation.
“Staff have helped inmates develop a strong social conscience; they want to show the community and their loved ones they are capable of pro-social and selfless action.”
Inmates came up with the idea for the fundraiser – which has already surpassed $10,000 – and wrote a letter to staff suggesting it was a chance to unite for a worthy cause.
“While treatments have improved, critical funding is still needed to support the brilliant women and men who are treating this disease and searching for a cure,” the letter said.
“We hope the money raised can assist with research and help in the care for patients, throughout their treatment and beyond.”
Marathon training has been underway at the centre for three months, with inmates undergoing rigorous practice runs, exercise regimes and aerobic exercise.
Family and friends of staff and inmates can sponsor participants on a per-lap basis, with a cheque to be presented to The McGrath Foundation next month.
Staff at the centre are also overseeing an inmate-led camera crew which is filming the marathon as part of a short documentary film.
Visit The McGrath Foundation website for details on how to donate to individuals and teams.
