Breast cancer survivor’s emotional call: Be a hero, volunteer for pink run

An Aussie woman has put out a call for help after receiving news that changed her life.

Breast cancer survivor Danique Hanson is calling for help and wants more volunteers for this year’s Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run. Picture: Annette Dew

Breast cancer survivor Danique Hanson is making an emotional plea: step up and volunteer for this year’s Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run.

The annual event has shattered records, selling out all 23,000 spots in just three weeks ahead of the March 9 run.

But while the Sea of Pink is set to flood Brisbane’s streets, Mrs Hanson, a 39-year-old yoga teacher, said there was still a way to make a difference — by volunteering along the 5km course.

“This isn’t just a run, it’s a movement. It’s a powerful symbol of support, solidarity, and hope,” she said.

“Even if you can’t run, you can still be part of something life-changing.”

Mrs Hanson said the event was deeply personal.

Mater Hospital’s Dr Diana Kennedy has helped Danique Hanson who is now working to raise money for cancer research. Images: Mater Hospital Brisbane

Last year she was diagnosed with stage two HER2-negative breast cancer after discovering a lump in her breast during a shower.

Dismissing it at first as another cyst, she soon received the life-altering news: it was an invasive form of breast cancer.

“It was a complete shock,” she said. “Your whole world just stops.”

Following a lumpectomy, she underwent a double mastectomy and expander reconstruction at Mater Private Hospital under the care of specialist surgeon Dr Diana Kennedy.

“The true heroes, of course, are the breast care nurses,” she said. “They were always there when I needed them most — angels on this earth.”

Now in recovery, Mrs Hanson is determined to give back and ensure no one faces breast cancer alone.

She’s calling on Queenslanders to fill vital volunteer roles, from assisting participants to keeping runners hydrated and guiding them along the course.

Mater Foundation chief executive Andrew Thomas echoed her call to action, urging those who missed out on entry to get involved.

“Volunteering means you’re part of something truly special,” he said.

“It’s a chance to support an iconic community event, connect with others, and make a tangible impact.”

This year’s fun run aims to raise more than $1.8 million for breast cancer research, lifesaving medical equipment, and crucial patient support services across Mater hospitals in Brisbane, Springfield, Redlands, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, and Bundaberg.

Mrs Hanson, grateful for the unwavering support of her husband Rhys Miller, said her scars were a daily reminder of the battle she fought and won.

“My scars remind me that I’m still here,” she said. “Life can change in the blink of an eye. Don’t take a single moment for granted.”

For those ready to step up and support the cause, volunteer registrations remain open.

Originally published as Breast cancer survivor’s emotional call: Be a hero, volunteer for pink run