A determined group of mothers from Corinda are coming together to embark on a journey of compassion and support. Their mission: to walk hundreds of kilometres to raise funds for children battling cancer, like nine-year-old Layla Nolan, who endured a year-long battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL).
Layla’s journey began with a seemingly innocuous sore elbow, leading to a diagnosis that has touched the hearts of her community. The diagnosis came as a shock, as what appeared to be a minor ailment escalated into a life-changing ordeal.
“At first, we thought it was a bit of bursitis,” said Kaylah Nolan, Layla’s mother. “She got antibiotics, and to me, it seemed to get better, but it came back so we presented to the hospital.”
After some blood tests, doctors told the family that Layla has ALL. Despite the heart-wrenching diagnosis, Layla faced her treatment with admirable courage. She underwent weekly blood tests and endured gruelling chemotherapy, resulting in losing her hair. Layla had to put her education on hold for an entire year and has only recently been able to return to school about 70% of the time.
To show their support, mums from Layla’s Prep class, now affectionately known as “Layla’s Legends,” have volunteered to participate in this year’s Camp Quality Big Walk for Little Kids fundraiser. Now in its fourth year, the event has already raised more than $5.5 million, providing assistance to approximately 10,000 Australian families dealing with childhood cancer.
Each member of Layla’s Legends has committed to walking 100 kilometres this September 2023, with pairs or groups tackling the challenge together whenever possible. The early morning walks and weekend efforts are a testament to their determination and unwavering support for the cause.
Meanwhile, Camp Quality has named six-time Paralympic gold medallist and childhood cancer survivor, Ellie Cole, as this year’s Big Walk for Little Kids champion. This virtual event invites participants to walk, run, or roll 50km, 100km, or 150km throughout the month, raising funds for Camp Quality’s vital programs and services that benefit children and families facing the challenges of cancer.
Participants can easily register online and seek sponsorship from friends, family members, schoolmates, or colleagues to support their efforts. Virtual teams can be formed, and participants can track their kilometres online using Fitbit or Strava.
“Everyone knows someone impacted by cancer. For children, this is a particularly terrifying experience,” said Deborah Thomas, CEO of Camp Quality. “Big Walk for Little Kids raises money to give those kids and their families a break from cancer on our Kids’ Camps and Family Camps.”
To contribute to this noble cause or to sign up for the Big Walk for Little Kids, visit www.bigwalk.org.au.. Together, the Corinda mums and Layla’s Legends are making a difference in the lives of children and families battling cancer, offering hope, strength, and a brighter future.
Published 20-Sept-2023