Courtesy of Cancer Council Queensland

Next month Lisa Colussa will lace up and run the Gold Coast Airport Marathon with one simple goal – to give hope to all Queenslanders affected be cancer.

The Alderley local knows first-hand the pain and emotion that comes with losing a loved one to cancer, and is determined to make the journey that little bit easier for others affected.

Last year Ms Colussa’s father passed away from lung cancer and in honour of his bravery, she will run 21 kilometres to raise funds for Cancer Council Queensland, the main beneficiary of the annual event.

“I’m taking part because I can’t change what happened to my dad but I can help make a difference to others affected by cancer through the fundraising that I do,” Ms Colussa said.

“Throughout his entire fight dad was an inspiration, not only to me but to everyone around him. He faced every challenge with bravery, courage, dignity, spirit and optimism.

“With the strength and bravery that he taught me I have motivated myself to run longer and harder than I ever have – if he can fight cancer then I can push myself and run 21 kilometres.”

Ms Colussa has already raised more than $15,000 for Cancer Council Queensland’s work in cancer research, education and support – and has no plans to stop fundraising just yet!

“It’s so easy to get involved and support this important cause. By running or fundraising, we can help make a difference,” she said.

To support Ms Colussa, visit her Everyday Hero page.

Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said those who took part in the 37^th annual Gold Coast Airport Marathon gave hope to Queenslanders touched by cancer.

“With your help, Cancer Council Queensland can continue to fund life-saving research and provide local support to loved ones affected by cancer,” she said.

“More than 61,000 Australian lives have been saved by improvements in cancer prevention, screening and treatment over the past 20 years – we need your help in 2015 to change even more lives for the better.”

The 2015 Gold Coast Airport Marathon will be held on July 4-5, with more than 27,000 runners expected to take part.

Participants can take part in either the Gold Coast Airport Marathon, Wheelchair Marathon, ASICS Half Marathon, Wheelchair 15km, Southern Cross university 10km Run, Suncorp Bank 5.7km Challenge and 4km & 2km Junior Dash races.