This time it's personal.

On Saturday 3 May 2025, I'm challenging myself to walk 35km as part of the New Town Toyota Walk for Women's Cancer. This walk isn't just a physical challenge for me – it's deeply personal.

Cancer has cast a long shadow over my family. My mother's battle with ovarian cancer changed our lives forever. When we discovered it might be genetic, I made the difficult decision to undergo testing myself. Testing positive for a nasty gene mutation led me to take preventative action to protect my own health and future.

The fear of passing this genetic predisposition to my daughter was overwhelming. The day we learned she was free of the gene was one of the most profound reliefs I've ever experienced. Not every family is so fortunate.

I'm doing this Walk for all the mothers who want to see their children grow up, for daughters who deserve to live without fear, and for families who shouldn't have to face the devastation that cancer brings.

This year I'm committed to raising vital funds for women's cancer research at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research because I've seen firsthand how research saves lives. The genetic testing that brought my family peace of mind exists because of dedicated researchers who refused to accept the status quo.

Please help me, help the Perkins.