Written by Shaun Ryan
Everybody knows someone who has been affected by cancer in some way or another.
That is the motivation behind one of the Fraser Coast’s most active fundraisers and supporters of cancer-related charities.
Known across the region for delivering happiness and leaving smiles on the faces of residents and businesspeople on her regular route, Hervey Bay parcel contractor for Australia Post Carol McHatton hopes her efforts will help find a cure for the disease.
“We all know someone or a family who has been affected by cancer,” Carol said.
In recent years, Carol has taken part in the World’s Greatest Shave twice and entered the Great Cycle Challenge for the fifth time last month.
She set out to ride 400km and raise $1,500.
The Great Cycle Challenge is staged across Australia every October and raises money to fight childhood cancers.
“I’ve seen photos of children who are fighting cancer and it is heartbreaking. Children should not be dying,” Carol said.
The event started in 2013 and raises money to research and develop better treatments and find a cure for childhood cancers.
“I’m 56-years-old and I will be riding in the challenge for as long as I can,” she said.
Carol said she plans to take part in the World’s Greatest Shave again when she turns 60.
“I want to grow my hair as long as possible. I believe shaving my head when my hair is long will have more of an impact and create more awareness.”
When not taking part in her own challenges, Carol always supports other people’s initiatives and donates wherever she can.
“It is never too late to start helping raise money and awareness for fundraising campaigns.”
She urged people to get on their bikes next year and pedal the Great Cycle Challenge.
“Every little bit of money helps and there are also the health benefits of exercising,” she said.
Carol thanked all her supporters and sponsors for backing her again this year. She said many people on her route have become her biggest supporters and helped motivate her to carry on.
“I know a lot of people who have died from cancer and I lost a very good friend to the disease this year. It is important for me to get involved and help kick cancer’s butt,” Carol said.
People can find out more about the Great Cycle Challenge and Carol’s campaign by clicking through to http://www.greatcyclechallenge.com.au/Riders/carolmchatton.