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Clarke supports cancer in the fourth test starting today!
Our Captain’s bat will display Cancer Council’s daffodil
Tuesday January 24, 2012Michael Clarke will show his support for people affected by cancer by displaying Cancer Council’s iconic daffodil on his bat during the fourth test at the Adelaide Oval this week.
The Australian Cricket Test Captain said cancer was an issue close to his heart.
Clarke’s father survived cancer and Michael has had three skin cancers removed from his face.
“Cricket will always be a big part of my life, but seeing my dad go through cancer has reminded me of what’s most important in life.” Clarke said.
“There’s every chance your life will be touched by cancer at some point.”
“I’m proud to be an ambassador for Cancer Council and carry the daffodil on my bat.”
It’s Cancer Council’s aim to raise funds and invest in research, prevention programs and support services for patients and their families.
Cancer Council Australia CEO, Professor Ian Olver, said the daffodil is the international symbol of hope.
“We are delighted that Michael is helping raise awareness of cancer, particularly some of the cancers that get less attention, like lung and bowel."
"More than 114,000 Australians are diagnosed with cancer each year,” Professor Olver said.
The most common causes of cancer death in Australia:
• Lung cancer (7,626 deaths)
• Bowel cancer (4,047 deaths)
• Prostate cancer (2,938 deaths)
• Breast cancer (2,706 deaths)
• Lymphoid cancers (2,552 deaths).
“The support of our ambassadors and the community has enabled Cancer Council to help reduce the cancer burden in Australia. Last year, we funded more than $50m in research."
“Cancer survival is improving thanks to research. The survival rate for many common cancers has increased by 30 per cent in the past two decades and more than 60% of cancer patients will survive more than five years after diagnosis,” he said.
The fourth test starts on Tuesday, 24 January.
You can donate to Cancer Council here.
Media contact:
Kate Dorrell, Cancer Council Australia
Ph: 02 8063 4153 or 0404 691 838 or kate.dorrell@cancer.org.au
