FALCONS are rallying around a teammate who continues to suit up for them in the wake of his lymphoma diagnosis.
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The player, who they describe as a much-loved “beast” on the field, has inspired Ballarat Gridiron to take an active approach in raising awareness and support for people affected by the cancer.
They in turn want to help others face lymphoma with courage.
So, the club started to think green – lime green – to help put lymphoma in the limelight.
The club is turning their final home game on Saturday lime green to support Lymphoma Australia's lymphoma nurse campaign to provide specialist nurses and education.
The fixture, a Gridiron Victoria men’s triple-header, coincides with Lymphoma Awareness Day.
Ballarat Gridiron president Casey Marin hoped it could be a chance for people to turn out and enjoy the game, even if they did not know a lot about the sport.
“When our player was diagnosed about two to three months ago, we sat down and thought, let’s actually do something...We want to raise awareness but we also want to do our bit for the foundation,” Ms Marin said.
“If you know nothing about football, it’ll be a good day and a good show. Look out for exciting tackles, touchdowns, great run and great passes.”
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Lymphoma is the fifth most common form of cancer in Australia but 80 per cent of Australians were unaware of the signs and symptoms, according to Lymphoma Australia.
More than 7000 Australians are diagnosed with lymphoma each year and the incidence of lymphoma has more than doubled the past 20 years.
Ballarat Gridiron is aiming to raise $500 from the match-day canteen on top of sales of lime shoelaces and wristbands.
Action kicks off at 10.30am with the main clash, Ballarat Falcons against Monash Barbarians under lights from 5.30pm at Alfredton Recreation Reserve. To support the club online, visit everydayhero.com.au for “tackling lymphoma” or to learn more about lymphoma, visit lymphoma.org.au.
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