Heroes each and every one

PEDAL POWER: Rose Dermer making her contribution to Saturday's 'spinathon' on behalf of teenage cancer patients Te Amo-haere Rudolph and Georgia Buckingham and their families.

Kaitaia teenagers Te Amo-haere Rudolph and Georgia Buckingham and their families are extremely grateful for all the support they have received from their community as they battle cancer, but that gratitude reached new heights on Saturday.

Each and every person who took part in the 'spinathon,' 12 hours of exercycling at Kaitaia gym Club Physical, were heroes, they said.

More than 140 people took part in the Te Hiku Hauora-organised event, which raised close to $3000 for the two families. The theme was Super Heroes, those who mounted up and shed some perspiration including Bat Girl, Raphael the Ninja Turtle and Thor.

The youngest participant was 3-year-old Jaimee Reti, who sat on mum Chevi's lap for their hour-long session, and the oldest 78-year-old John Somerville. One particularly hardy benefactor, Roselle Barrientos, cycled for the entire 12 hours.

"Team spirit, laughter and fun were evident throughout the event," Te Hiku Hauora health promotion team kaimahi Louisa Cooper said.

"It was great to see young and old together as one. To all those who gave, spun and shared, a huge thank you. He mihi nui to the team at Club Physical and the five instructors who provided the spinners with an atmosphere and workout they won't forget."

Kaitaia College student Te Amo-haere said all the pain and hurt she had experienced since her diagnosis was nothing compared to the support and love the community had shown.

"It's days much like today that make me realise more positive things have come from our diagnoses than negative. And in a way I am honoured to have been a part of that. I admire all those who rode today. You are all my heroes!" she added.