Breast Cancer Foundation NZ is urgently seeking people in the Southland region to volunteer for its Pink Ribbon Street Appeal this October. 

Around 10,000 Pink Ribbon volunteers across the country will take to the streets on 29 and 30 October to collect donations for breast cancer research, education and patient support. But the appeal may be at risk of cancellation in Bluff and Winton unless volunteer area coordinators are found there to oversee local collection sites. Additional volunteer collectors are also needed in the rest of the region.

Area coordinators manage a small team of collectors and are supplied with all materials required to look after their local sites. Anyone interested in being an area coordinator can sign up at: pinkribbonvolunteer.org.nz/becoming-area-coordinator

Lisa Rabbidge, who is 49 years old and lives in Invercargill, says volunteering for the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal means a lot to her: “I was diagnosed with an aggressive breast cancer in November last year and went on to have a mastectomy, six months of chemotherapy, Herceptin and hormone-blocking medication. I’m now that friend, colleague, mother and daughter who insists all women check their breasts regularly and not be afraid of mammograms, as early detection is our best chance. I’m looking forward to taking part in this appeal, giving back to my community, raising awareness and sharing my story as a breast cancer survivor.”

Ah-Leen Rayner, chief executive of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, said: “As a charity that receives no government funding, we rely entirely on the generosity of New Zealanders to keep our vital work going. But once again, the uncertainty caused by Covid-19 lockdowns has dealt a crushing blow to our fundraising efforts. And without more volunteers in Southland, we can’t run our street appeal here.”

“By giving up a few hours you’ll be making a huge difference in the fight against breast cancer. The money raised will help to save lives through cutting-edge research, the promotion of early detection and supporting patients through their treatment and recovery.”

Breast cancer is the most common cancer for Kiwi women. Each year, around 235 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the Southern District Health Board area and every year around 45 will die from it. 

To volunteer for the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal, please visit pinkribbonvolunteer.org.nz, email [email protected] or phone 0508 105 105.