Today, marks the 30th anniversary of Canteen’s National Bandanna Day, a day in Australia that has become a powerful symbol of resilience and solidarity for young Australians grappling with cancer.
For three decades, National Bandanna Day has been more than just a fundraiser; it’s been a lifeline.
Every dollar raised today means a brighter tomorrow for young people aged 12-25 whose lives have been turned upside down by cancer.
The funds raised from National Bandanna Day go directly to providing young people facing cancer access to life-saving treatment, specialised counselling and programs to connect with others who’ve been in a similar situation.
Canteen’s goal is to raise $1.3 million via Bandanna Day this year to ensure no young person has to face cancer alone.
Janelle Cook, Executive Director of Canteen, said Bandanna Day makes a huge contribution to funding ongoing research and critical support services provided to thousands of young Australians every year.
“Bandanna Day is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a symbol of hope and solidarity for young people affected by cancer. Your support helps Canteen to provide essential programs and services that make a real difference in young people’s lives”.
“Every day, 23,000 young Australians face the harsh realities of cancer, either through their own diagnosis or a loved one. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has stood with us, bought a bandanna, made a donation, or shared their story over the last 30 years. Your generosity makes a tangible difference in the lives of young people impacted by cancer,” said Janelle.
One of these stories is Canteen Youth Ambassador, Chloe van Ommen.
Chloe was just 9 years old when her grandfather was diagnosed with cancer, a journey that ended in heartbreak when he passed away 8 years later when she was 17. Shortly after her grandfather passed away, Chloe’s mum was diagnosed with breast cancer.
This Bandanna Day, Chloe designed her own ‘The rest is confetti’ bandanna to represent her cancer experience and the things that helped her throughout her journey.
“The confetti in the background of my bandanna design reflects the sweet and bitter moments in my cancer experience. Woven through the design, you will also find ribbons for the different cancer types and music notes which I found supportive in my journey,” said Chloe.
Every bandanna sold and dollar raised this Bandanna Day will help young people find life in the face of cancer and discover new experiences on the flipside of the hard ones.
Join us this Bandanna Day – to buy a bandanna, or make a donation, visit bandannaday.org.au
