Janelle Tyson

A Journey Close to My Heart

For the past 11 years, I’ve taken part in the Seven Bridges Walk, and it’s something I’ve absolutely loved. The 28 km walk takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Sydney, with incredible views and a route that never gets old. But over the years, this walk has come to mean so much more to me than just the beautiful scenery and the challenge of completing 28 km.

Eleven years ago, I lost a beautiful friend to cancer. Her passing had a profound impact on me, and she has remained in my thoughts throughout every walk since. At the time, I could never have imagined how much more personal this cause would become for me.

Last year, my world changed when my eldest son was diagnosed with melanoma at just 17 years old. He has been undergoing treatment for the past year and a half, and as a mum, watching your child go through something like this is incredibly difficult. It’s something you never imagine happening to your own family, and it has changed the way I see cancer and the impact it has on so many lives.

This walk now means more to me than ever before. I’ve come to realise just how many people are affected by this horrible disease, and how many families are navigating the fear, uncertainty and challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. It’s a reminder that behind every diagnosis is a person, a family, and a story.

It’s also incredible to see how far cancer treatment has come, and that gives me so much hope. But I know there is still so much more to be done. Every year, I take part in this walk for my beautiful friend, for my son, and for everyone who has been touched by cancer in some way.

For me, every step is personal. I’ll keep walking for the people I love, for the families who are going through this right now, and for a future where no one has to experience the heartbreak of losing someone to cancer

I’m walking for a cancer free future

I’m taking on 7 Bridges Walk on Sunday 25 October 2026 and will be uniting with the community to walk 28km around Sydney Harbour. 

Every year in NSW alone, more than 56,000 new cases of cancer are expected to be diagnosed and the impact on families, carers and communities is significant. 

Please sponsor me and help those affected by cancer. Every step counts because all funds raised will help Cancer Council NSW work towards the vision of a cancer free future. Thank you for your support!