<p>Inspiring Story: Michelle Bleakley</p><p>Long-time and passionate Fight Cancer Foundation supporter, health and fitness expert, Michelle Bleakley is the inaugural ambassador for The TEAM FIGHT CANCER Project – a new initiative challenging Australians to join forces and participate in team events and raise funds for cancer research and to support fellow Australians living with cancer.</p><p>“This is a win win,” says Michelle. “My passion is running, and I take a great deal of pride in helping others to accomplish their goals – small and large – and chase their fitness dreams.”</p><p>“You don’t have to be super fit to join in. Take the first step and the rest will follow. Gather some friends - the team spirit will encourage you to keep your goals in sight.”</p><p>“Anyone at any level can participate. Set your target, work towards it and at the same time, you will be supporting fellow Australians living with cancer.”</p><p>Michelle’s decision to support The TEAM FIGHT CANCER Project had its origins in 1989, when her twin sister Karen was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia at age 21 and needed a bone marrow transplant. At that time, there was no bone marrow donor registry in Australia but being an identical twin, Michelle was a perfect bone marrow donor match for her sister.</p><p>Michelle and Karen’s father, John Opie, and a small group of parents made it their mission to help other families facing overwhelming challenges and established the Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry in 1989. Today this Registry has 180,000 Australians registered and the internationally-linked registry provides access to 10 million potential donors around the world.</p><p>Michelle will take part in the Melbourne Marathon on Sunday October 13 as The TEAM FIGHT CANCER Project’s ambassador, and she is encouraging others to register and join the TEAM. </p><p>Enter to run or walk the Melbourne Marathon by visiting: www. melbournemarathon .com.au and designate your fundraising page to Fight Cancer Foundation. </p>