The NRL’s Beanie for Brain Cancer round is a significant one on the NRL calendar, but never has it been more relevant to the Sharks than in 2020.
This week’s round of matches will mark the fourth annual Beanie for Brain Cancer campaign and the Sharks are certainly encouraging everyone to get behind the cause with young NRL squad member Fine Kula currently battling the horrible disease.
Last year over $3 million was raised, with all 16 playing squads to again run out wearing the Mark Hughes Foundation beanies while encouraging fans to buy a beanie at selected Lowes and IGA stores or online via the foundation’s website.
Donations can also be made by going to the website at https://markhughesfoundation.com.au/
While strict biosecurity measures surrounding the COVID-19 restrictions means there won't be sales at games this year, the foundation made the decision to "power on" and sell the 150,000 beanies which were ordered back in December.
Foundation head Mark Hughes explains; “It’s more than a beanie, it’s a symbol of hope.”
And it can also be a message as to the Sharks continued support in the Fight For Fine, the fundraising efforts for the 21-year-old Kula who continues to undergo intensive treatment after being diagnosed with brain cancer earlier in the year.
Sharks fans, as well as purchasing a beanie, can donate to the Fight for Fine fund by going to the dedicated go fund me page.
Fans of all clubs can show support from home even if they can’t be at games this weekend and are encouraged to post photos on social media wearing their beanies while watching the footy on TV.
All funds raised from the sale of the beanies go to the foundation and to supporting brain cancer research and ultimately better outcomes for patients.
Brain cancer kills more children than any other disease and kills more people under 40 in Australia than any other type of cancer, while receiving very little government research funding.
The Beanies for Brain Cancer Round was an initiative established by the late Nine NRL executive producer Matt Callander in association with the Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) which was set up by the former Newcastle Knights player who was affected by the disease.
The MHF funds research projects in line with the National Brain Cancer Mission, with the aim of doubling survival rates and improving the quality of life for patients with brain cancer.
