Up to 100 gathered at the Launceston Support Centre on Thursday, sharing stories of survival and bravery, and discussing research for a cancer-free future.

Cancer survivor Lesley Freak said she was diagnosed with adrenocortical carcinoma in 2011, and has beaten the odds by surpassing the diseases’ two-year life expectancy. 

“There’s no such thing as remission for my cancer. 

“I’ve had really good support from the medical people in Launceston and in Sydney, and if it wasn’t for the exercise centres I’m doing here at the Cancer Centre I wouldn’t really be up and moving around,” she said.

Cancer Council Tasmania community engagement officer Sue O’Brien said she hoped the foundation would raise $350,000 this year. 

“Over the years we’ve raised $4.2 million for the state which is quite an amazing feat,” she said. 

“We are aiming for a cancer-free future. Most of the money we raise we put towards our support services and support groups.”