What is your connection to Melton?
I live here and have for most of my 28 years.
Tell me about why you decided to do the One Day to Conquer Cancer event.
I believe that it is a part of a great cause benefiting the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. I have had several friends and family members suffer through cancer, some of which their lives were taken due to it, others lucky to have lived through it. However, watching them suffer on a daily basis, while still trying to maintain a smile for the benefit of their loved ones, is a horrible thing to witness. If I can take a day out of my busy life to show support and keep that smile strong on those suffering with cancer or those we have lost, I will stand with them and remember them and contribute the best way I know how.
What will you be doing for the event?
I will be walking for 25 kilometres through the streets of Melbourne to raise crucial funds in the aid of treatment and research for cancer sufferers and I really believe that walking saves lives. Walking itself is not a strenuous activity, it is not hard on your body, anyone can do it and it is days like these events that can raise awareness and show true support to those suffering through a life of cancer, that they are not alone. When diagnosed with cancer, your day, your world and your life, will never be the same, so on October 29 I will stand with those battling cancer and thousands of others who are taking “one day to conquer cancer”.
How has your preparation been so far?
In preparation for the event I have been walking regularly with my family and friends who assist in cheering me on and giving me the strength and support with the cause I stand for.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
People would be surprised to know that I was an elite gymnast for the Melton Gymnastic Academy for a number of years. I was state champion in 2001 all around first place at the age of 12, among many other gymnastics achievements during my history as a gymnast.
What is the best thing about living in Melton?
The people. We are a multicultural community where everyone is welcome and no two people are the same. The learning and understanding that goes along with that is what I truly love. I love meeting new people from all walks of life and learning about them and their ways of life, which, a lot of the time differ from my own and present new and exciting opportunities.
If you could change anything about the area, what would it be?
The thing that I would change in Melton is the public transport system. It is slow, irregular and out-dated.
Donate to Jackie’s fundraising campaign: bit.ly/2xvjxi1
