Paint the town pink for the Rotorua Breast Cancer Trust

The Rotorua Breast Cancer Trust Pink Walk returns to the city this October and promises to be a fun-filled evening that the whole family can enjoy.

Now in its 11th year, the Rotorua Pink Walk is unique in that all proceeds raised from the event are used to support local people and their families.

With financial assistance from donations, grants and the Pink Walk, the organisation are able to provide support to those affected by breast cancer in the Rotorua area.

Working with a network of supporters and services, the trust offers everything from morning tea and walking groups to health programs including Can B Fit, an eight-week exercise programme focusing on mobility, Lymphoedema symptom management and prevention.

Funds raised from last year's Pink Walk also contributed to 26 women taking part in the PINC Cancer Rehabilitation Program. The program is offered by specially trained therapists from Te Ngae Physiotherapy and Pilates and aims to help women recovering from breast cancer.

Andrea Gallaher who was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2017 was one of the recipients of the Rotorua Pink Walk funding, which enabled her to take part in the PINC Program.

"Following my diagnosis I had two lots of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation," she said.

"I commenced the program midway through treatment and feel that the program played a major part in my healing and recovery.

"I can't thank those who participated in the Pink Walk enough, for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the program and also the wonderful staff at Te Ngae Physio for their fantastic care and support."

While funds raised from the Pink Walk are used in for a very practical and serious purpose, organisers say the event itself is anything but serious.

"All of the trustees are looking forward to seeing the eye-catching costumes of our walkers," said chairwoman Sarah Davies.

"Some people go all out! For example, The Arts Village who impress year after year with their group's creativity – I don't think anyone will ever forget the Pink Lego characters."

Davies said that the trustees like to reward the dress up efforts of walkers with prizes that are sourced from a large number of generous Rotorua businesses.

"We have prizes for best-dressed female, male, child and business team as well as spot prizes that we give out at random during the evening.

"We're all very grateful to our sponsors for their donations."

The trust also has the support of major sponsors who help fund the event and assist with anything from first aid to audio, advertising and entertainment.

Online registration for the walk is now open at rotoruabreastcancertrust.co.nz/pinkwalk/ or walkers can register at the Village Green from 4.30pm on Wednesday October 17.

Adult and teenage entry is $10, and a Koha is requested for children aged 12 and under.

Live entertainment, food vendors and activities for the kids will all be part of the build-up to the walk which sets off at 6pm.