Pictured: Dotty and Lincoln
This September, Australians are being encouraged to put their best foot forward for kids facing cancer, with media personality Anna Robards joining Camp Quality’s Big Walk for Little Kids campaign.
Now in its seventh year, the annual fundraiser is returning during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, inviting people of all ages and fitness levels to choose their own walking challenge and help raise vital funds for children and families impacted by cancer.
Proudly supported by ALDI Australia, participants can choose to walk 64km, 128km or 192km throughout September, numbers inspired by the 64 Australian children diagnosed with cancer every month.
Anna is a busy mum of two, and has joined the campaign as this year’s Big Walk for Little Kids Champion, combining her passion for health and fitness with a cause close to her heart.
“The thought of a child going through cancer is just heartbreaking,” shared Anna. “No parent ever wants to see their child suffer. That’s why getting behind Big Walk for Little Kids means so much to me.
“It’s humbling to use my passion for health and fitness for something extremely meaningful, helping
bring some fun and laughter to kids and families facing cancer.”
The money raised will help Camp Quality deliver programs like Family Camps, Kids’ Camps, Family Retreats and Emergency Respite, giving families a much-needed break from hospital stays, treatment and the stress of cancer.
For two-year-old Dotty and her family, that support has already made a huge difference.
In March 2025, Dotty’s mum Katy noticed her usually energetic daughter had suddenly become exhausted and unwell, experiencing recurring infections, fevers, night sweats and weight loss.
After several rounds of antibiotics failed to help, Dotty began vomiting blood one night, prompting Katy and her partner Jacob to rush her to the Royal Children’s Hospital.
Tests revealed the devastating diagnosis, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
“Everything happened so quickly after that. They started treatment within five minutes. There was no chance to process it,” said Katy.
Dotty spent 10 days in the paediatric oncology ward, while her parents took turns staying beside her and caring for her older brother, Lincoln.
Camp Quality soon became a source of support for the family, with Child Life Therapists helping Dotty understand her treatment through play and programs giving Lincoln the opportunity to connect with other siblings going through similar experiences.
After discovering Camp Quality through a poster at the chemotherapy day clinic, the family attended their first Family Camp in December.
“It was amazing to be with other families in our situation, who looked like ours.”
The experience also gave Katy and Jacob a rare opportunity to reconnect, while Lincoln found friends who understood what he was going through.
Dotty has since returned to kindy and is now undergoing maintenance chemotherapy, with her treatment expected to finish on June 10th, 2027, her fifth birthday.
“I can see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. I know we’re going to get there, and every day is a step closer,’ said Katy.
Now, Dotty and her family are getting involved themselves, joining Big Walk for Little Kids this September. The fundraiser gives Australians a chance to show children and families they aren’t alone during their cancer journey.
And you don’t need to be a seasoned runner or fitness fanatic to get involved. Participants can tackle their chosen distance however they like, whether that’s walking around the neighbourhood, hitting the gym or bringing along a four-legged friend.
Anna will be joined by celebrity surf lifesaver Harries Carroll, who is returning for his second year as a Big Walk for Little Kids Champion.
Registrations are now open for Big Walk for Little Kids, with Australians encouraged to choose their distance, gather their friends and family and start walking throughout September.
For more information, click here.
