Sydney Youth Raise Thousands for Breast Cancer Research and Syria Relief Effort in Annual ‘Walkathon’
The attendees gathered eagerly in front of St Hurmizd Cathedral following the Eucharistic Liturgy registering their names and receiving their packs which included a t-shirt, hat and bag. The event was this year graced by the presence of His Beatitude Mar Meelis Zaia AM, Metropolitan of Australia, New Zealand and Lebanon who welcomed the hundreds of attendees, spoke about the importance of the causes being supported and bestowed his episcopal blessings on all participants. Shortly afterwards balloons were released into the heavens before faithful embarked on the 10km journey. The Metropolitan cut the ceremonial ribbon before the faithful commenced.
Leading the walk was the Coordinator of the ACEYA – S, Ninos Yacoub. Meanwhile Reverend Narsai Youkhanis (Youth Chaplain) and Reverend Ninos Elya were the last two walkers ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the rest.
The walkers were encouraged beforehand to be sponsored by their family or friends for participating in the walk. All the funds raised will be contributed to two very worthy causes; The National Breast Cancer Foundation (Australia) and the Assyrian Church of the East Relief Organisation (ACERO). The funds granted to the latter organisation will be used in aid of ACERO’s relief efforts related to the ongoing conflict in Syria. It is noteworthy that through the enormous generosity of participants and donors over $25,000 (AUD) was raised in the 2013 ‘Walkathon.
and lovely volunteers waiting to assist them and stamp their form. Medical staff were also present to ensure the safety of all participants and to attend to any medical issues arising.
Leading the walk was the beloved Coordinator of the ACEYA Sydney, Ninos Yacoub. Meanwhile Reverend Narsai Youkhanis (Youth Chaplain) and Reverend Ninos Elya were the last two walkers ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the rest.
The walkers were encouraged beforehand to be sponsored by their family or friends for participating in the walk. All the funds raised are going to two very worthy causes, firstly The National Breast Cancer Foundation Australia and Assyrian Church of the East Relief Organisation (ACERO) which will be distributing the donations to the misplaced people of Syria. We can proudly say that thanks to everyone’s donations we have raised over $25 000.
As the walkers reached the fifth checkpoint, buses transported them back to Edessa Hall where food and entertainment was organised to express the gratitude of the Youth Association to all the enthusiastic participants. Prizes were awarded to various categories, then the afternoon ended in sharing a meal and Assyrian dancing.