Across Australia cancer is the largest single killer of children from disease in Australia - over 600 children are diagnosed with cancer every year and sadly, three die every week.
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That is why Stawell resident Brooke Palfreyman is preparing to turn the pedals during October, to help raise much needed funds for to help in the fight against kids' cancer by joining the Great Cycle Challenge.
Ms Palfreyman said she decided to sign up for the challenge to help in the battle.
"I think having had a really close friend endure cancer when I was little and seeing the challenges she faced attracted me to this cause," she said.
"She was only four at the time and what the family went through was so tough.
"I have family members who have passed from cancer and this cause just really struck a cord with me, as well, having my own little one. Kids shouldn't have to go through that.
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"If we can try and kick it in the butt as soon as possible, kids can grow up and live their life as kids and not have to grow up so quickly.
"For anyone to go through cancer is tough, let alone for someone who has only been on the Earth for a few years."
Ms Palfreyman said she had completed 'Dry July' for the past three years, but decided to change up the challenge and cause in 2021.
"I have a love-hate relationship with running, so getting on the bike is a good thing," she said.
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"I have been training during September and I'm planning on building up with the riding throughout October.
"The motivation is for the kids, so it is not going to be hard to get on the bike and head out."
To support Ms Palfreyman's efforts, visit the her Great Cycle Challenge webpage.
In October the Great Cycle Challenge will be held across the country, with all funds raised to support the Children's Medical Research Institute to continue their work into the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and finding a cure for childhood cancer.
Great Cycle Challenge started in 2013, and after just eight years, the event has grown to become one of the biggest cycling events in Australia.
People of all ages, abilities and from every state across the country set themselves a personal riding goal and challenge themselves to pedal throughout October to fight kids' cancer.
In eight years, our community of 79,047 riders from all six states and two territories have ridden a total of 21,424,695km, and together we've raised $27,141,846 in support of research to develop better treatments and find a cure for childhood cancer.
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