In April, a team of 11 Gutsy trekkers took on the Kangaroo Island Gutsy Challenge to support vital new research into GI cancer.
Led by oncologist and GI Cancer Institute researcher, Associate Professor Amitesh Roy, the team included GI Cancer Institute staff, fellow oncologists and researchers, as well as community members personally impacted by the disease.
The intrepid group trekked more than 14 kilometers per day, covering a total distance of 73 kilometres. Their journey took them across steep terrain, through breathtaking landscapes, and past incredible wildlife. By night, they gathered to share stories and meals under the stars.
Professor Lorraine Chantrill, GI Cancer Institute Board Chair, reflected on some of the most rewarding aspects of the Gutsy Challenge: “Getting to know people—especially those with lived experience—being out in nature, and sharing stories.”
Summing up the experience, Joanne Cory, CEO of GI Cancer Institute, said she was “grateful for a supported, remarkable adventure in a spectacular part of the world with fabulous people.”
First-time Gutsy Challenge participant Gabrielle Keen shared, “It was an incredible experience with nine other legends I’m proud to now call friends. It was a very special way to honour the memory of my father-in-law while doing something practical to advance cancer research.”
We are so grateful to all our trekkers and everyone who donated to support them. It is thanks to them that we raised over $54,000 through this trek, which will fund lifesaving research to improve treatment options for people with GI cancer.
To find out more about our upcoming Gutsy treks, Click Here!