14 December 2021

18-year-old Gold Coast local Zac Cacciola will put his fitness to the test when he undertakes a non-stop 24-hour run to raise funds for prostate cancer on December 18.

Mr Cacciola is encouraging locals to come along to the event and join him for a lap or two as he runs continuously around the Runaway Bay Little Athletics track starting at 7am.

‘Many Laps for Men’ was organised in support of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia to raise vital funds for prostate cancer research, awareness and support.

Mr Cacciola said he was inspired to do something big in honour of his Nonno (grandad) while encouraging an important conversation about prostate cancer.

“When my Nonno was diagnosed with prostate cancer I wanted to do something to help him and other men and their families impacted by the disease,” he said.

“Nonno is an incredible man, husband, father and grandad who has helped shape me into the person I am today.

“This run will be physically and mentally challenging but I know it will start a conversation about prostate cancer – something that I feel isn’t talked about enough.

“The run will be brutal and goes for a very long time but Nonno is my inspiration and I know I can do it.”

PCFA CEO Anne Savage commended Zac for his mammoth commitment to helping locals impacted by prostate cancer.

“We are incredibly grateful to have John’s support, which helps us to fund new research, new support services, and new awareness activities that benefit men and families in the local area,” Ms Savage said.

“Every 30 minutes one of our fathers or sons will hear the news that he has prostate cancer. Alarmingly, it remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men.

“We know that many families in Queensland are facing prostate cancer right now and will need special care and support.

“Community action is key to beating it – we know that research and early detection saves lives.

“We are proud to work with champions in the local community like Zac to create a world free from prostate cancer.”

‘Many Laps for Men’ will start at 7am on Saturday 18 December at Runaway Bay Little Athletics Track and run for 24 hours.

Locals are encouraged to show their support by joining Zac for a lap, cheering him on or donating some loose change. To make a donation, visit https://fundraise.pcfa.org.au/fundraisers/zacherycacciola.

For prostate cancer information and support, call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.

ENDS

Media contact: Laura McKoy | M. 0435 094 788