The battle against melanoma is taking centre stage as the Neil Evans Melanoma Foundation (NEMF) proudly announces the national launch of the Beat Melanoma brand in Coogee.
This initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of melanoma and support Australian melanoma patients in overcoming financial barriers to beat the disease. The launch event in will feature two inspiring activities on Sunday, 17 Sept 2023, at Coogee Beach to engage the community in this vital cause.
Melanoma is a significant health concern in Australia, with one person being diagnosed every 30 minutes, and tragically, every six hours, one person succumbing to the disease. It is also the leading cancer in the 20-39 year age group in the country.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk: Stepping Forward To #BeatMelanoma
The day begins with the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, starting at North Bondi SLSC at 7 a.m. (participants are requested to arrive by 6:45 a.m.). This 6km journey along Sydney’s iconic coastline serves as both a tribute to Neil Evans’ legacy and a call to action for all Australians to prioritize regular skin checks.
Participants will trek southward, enjoying the breathtaking scenery and pausing for refreshments in Bronte before continuing their march towards Coogee. The group is expected to arrive at Coogee Beach at approximately 9 a.m.
Sonia Nazaretian, the founder of the Neil Evans Melanoma Foundation, shared her sentiments about the event.
“Neil fought long and hard against melanoma and is the guiding spirit of both the Foundation and the Beat Melanoma initiative. So, too, he will guide us on the day as we embrace Sydney’s stunning coastline to honor his memory and spotlight the urgency of melanoma awareness as we continue the important work to support patients,” Ms Nazaretian said.
Beat Melanoma Spring Launch at Coogee Beach
Following the Coastal Walk, the focus will shift to Coogee Beach for the Beat Melanoma Spring launch barbecue, scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
“We are thrilled to introduce Beat Melanoma to the community,” Ms Nazaretian said. “Neil loved Coogee, and his final resting place is nearby. Beat Melanoma will play a pivotal role in our ongoing efforts to support Australian melanoma patients through the Foundation.”
Coogee Beach will provide a picturesque backdrop for the event, featuring a free sausage sizzle, refreshments, light entertainment, and giveaways. The launch aims to not only celebrate the Australian love for warm weather and outdoor activities but also serve as a critical reminder, especially to young people, about the importance of sun safety and the deadly nature of melanoma.
“Every 30 minutes, an Australian is diagnosed with melanoma. It’s the leading cancer in the 20-39 age group. So our collective determination to beat melanoma is stronger than ever,” Ms Nazaretian emphasized. “On behalf of the Neil Evans Melanoma Foundation, Beat Melanoma symbolizes hope and the great power of the wider community – and with them, all Australians – to come together for a crucial cause.”
Visit Beat Melanoma online for more details.
Published 15-Sept-2023
