RELAY FOR LIFE BENDIGO

03/05/2012

ACM students demonstrate community spirit

There are very few of us who do not know someone who has been touched by cancer and the sense of hope and inspiration ignited at this event made it a memorable night for all involved.

The warmth and pleasure of a massage ‘pit stop’ during a long brisk night walking the Bendigo athletics track for this great cause saw constant demand for a place on an ACM massage table.

Relay For Life brings together people from all walks of life that have lived with, or are living with, the effects of cancer. Teams challenge themselves in a relay style overnight 21-hour run or walk.

This unique fund raising event entered into its 13th year in Bendigo and ACM students were there to support relay participants. The event kicked off at 6pm on Friday 27 April and saw participants walking until 3pm Saturday 28 April.

Offering 15 minute massages, ACM students ranging from those who have just commenced their massage studies through to those who have completed their Diploma of Remedial Massage, were a welcome relief for many relay participants.  The heated massage room also offered a moments escape from the bitterly cold night.  

Massages were provided for a donation of $2 and $5 to over 60 walkers, raising $475 towards the total revenue of $167,000 for the night. A wonderful effort that was well received by the Cancer Council and of course the relay participants to ensure the cancer fight continues.

The feedback from all those that received massage was fantastic and it highlighted for ACM students the strength and power of massage for individuals and entire communities.

ACM will continue to support this uplifting and inspiring event and envisions even more students participating in next years’ Bendigo Relay for Life.  Event organisers have never seen such an amazing participation from Massage Therapists and welcome an ongoing association with ACM.

Overall a positive learning experience for ACM students, massage receivers, event coordinators and a connection that will continue to benefit and support so many people going forward.