Bloody idiots on the run

Haematology staff from Dunedin hospital has shown their support for blood cancer by entering a team called the ‘Bloody Idiots’ in the Dunedin Stadium Climb this Sunday 16th September.

"Our patients are supportive and also surprised because some of us are not exactly athletic. I assured them we’ll be having a ‘bloody’ good time anyway," says Clinical Director of Haematology at Southern Blood and Cancer Service Dr Annette Neylon.

Leukaemia Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) is a charity that created the event to help raise money for locals affected by blood cancer.

"It’s a high energy charity event for the people of Dunedin with an emphasis on fun. Locals get the opportunity to win prizes as they climb 5,200 steps in time to music. What better location than the iconic rugby venue Forsyth Barr stadium." says LBC Chief Executive Officer Peter Fergusson.

The Bloody Idiots are competing against their sister team Haemodynamix also from Dunedin Hospital. The two teams combined have raised almost $10,000 to help blood cancer patients and their families.

Family, friends, local businesses and haematology patients have chipped-in to sponsor the two hospital teams taking on the challenge.

"The team captain sends motivational texts to encourage us to train. I have to admit, my training so far has been limited to the dance floor at South Pacific bar and restaurant. But, I know other team members are taking their training more seriously," says Annette.

Stadium Climb Dunedin is also a special event for Greg Jolly who was diagnosed with an aggressive Non-Hodgkin lymphoma this time seven years ago. Greg saw his doctor for a sinus infection but it turned out to be a five centimetre cancer tumour in his nasal system. After chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Greg is now in remission and enthusiastic to be participating in a local event that supports his cause.

"It’s an opportunity to show my gratitude to the amazing people that helped through it all. My family, friends and haematology staff at Dunedin hospital. How incredible would it be to play a part in raising money to help provide a cure or additional time and comfort to people suffering from a blood cancer," says Greg.

LBC does not receive government funding and is supported entirely by voluntary donations. For event information or to make a donation visit: www.stadiumclimb.co.nz/Dunedin.
For more information about LBC visit www.leukaemia.org.nz
Disclaimer: While the headline states the Bloody Idiots are on the run. The rules of Stadium Climb Dunedin state that running is only permitted up the steps for safety reasons. When coming down the stairs participants should walk and they must take every step.
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