Father fulfills his promise

Volume 48, No. 16, Sepetember 7, 2006

BIG WIGS: Thanks to their Cancer Council NSW wigs, FLTLT Dave Gunn and his daughter Sarah kept track of each other among more than 60,000 participants in the City2Surf.

By Rebecca Codey

FLTLT Dave Gunn and his 13-year-old daughter Sarah joined more than 60,000 people in August’s Sun Herald City2Surf.

The father and daughter completed the 14 kilometre fun run in just over an hour-and-a-half, and enjoyed a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean after crossing the finishing line at Bondi.

While this achievement alone is something to be proud of, the fact FLTLT Gunn is in the midst of intensive chemotherapy makes it even more impressive.

The C-130H Navigator Instructor with 285SQN, RAAF Base Richmond, was diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer in May, underwent major abdominal surgery and is undergoing five months of treatment.

He participated in the City2Surf to fulfil a promise to Sarah and to raise money for the Cancer Council NSW.

Thanks to FLTLT Gunn’s participation on the day, and subsequent fundraising efforts, he has collected about $3000 for the cause.

“Once the run was over and we had gathered our breath, it came to me that our time wasn’t important, or the fact that we had come through unscathed, raising money for a good cause and in a tribute to both my mum and FLGOFF Barry Campbell, who both died of cancer, was far more significant,” he said.

“The fundraising has taken a greater effort than the run and both have kept me focussed during what has been a challenging period in my life.

“And I am so proud of Sarah’s achievement.”

According to FLTLT Gunn, the run proved to be a great day out and they maintained a steady pace, running most of the way. The 46-year-old said the effects of the chemotherapy wouldn’t allow him the strength to increase his speed, despite his mind urging him to.

FLTLT Gunn will hand over the last of the money on September 8.

“I have been touched by the generosity of our donors — family friends and relatives, ex-RAF mates in the UK and USA, 36 and 285 SQN colleagues, and Richmond personnel who put cash in the collection boxes at the frontline,” he said.

Donations are still being accepted by credit card.

 Go to www.cancercouncil.com.au/sponsor and type david gunn in the ‘I would like to sponsor’ box, click on city2surf and then enter the amount before pressing continue.
All donations over two dollars are tax deductible and a receipt will be provided.

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