Lacing up for the love of it
9-year-old Indi beat cancer twice and did more than 200 laps at the Bayleys Skateathon for Child Cancer Foundation this winter. Here's how it went.
On 28 June, Indi Wealleans headed to Hanmer Springs with her family and got her ice skates on for a good cause – giving back to the charity that’s helped her get through childhood cancer not once, but twice.
Indi was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma when she was two, and she relapsed at six. Now in remission and full of enthusiasm, she’s willing to give just about anything a go, and with gusto, to raise funds and awareness for Child Cancer Foundation. We couldn’t be more proud!
We’re so thankful to the Alpine Winter Festival in Hanmer Springs, and Bayleys for kicking it off this year with their 12-hour Skateathon for Child Cancer Foundation, too. By the end of the day, more than $5,000 was raised by generous rink-goers. It really lifts our spirits to see how much support is out there, in so many forms.
Speaking of form, how did the young figure skater go, anyway?
We caught up with Indi after her big skate:
What do you love about Hanmer Springs?
The hot pools and the hydroslides and going on nature walks in the forest.
What were your favourite parts of the Skateathon, and why?
Skating with my friends, because everything is always more fun with friends. My friend Lily was there, she is one of my best friends I met at Camp Quality. She used to have cancer too.
How many laps did you do?
I think I did over 200 laps, we lost count!
If you had to describe what ice skating is like (to someone who’s never done it before), what would you say? What tips would you give?
It’s like rollerblading but slipperier! Once you get the hang of it, it gets easier. Holding onto a chair or someone’s hand to start with makes it easier too.
What do you really like about being an ambassador for Child Cancer Foundation?
I love helping raise money and awareness. I get to do really cool things like the Sparkle for Hope Ball, photoshoots, artwork to auction and events like the Skateathon!
How did Child Cancer Foundation help you on your cancer journey?
Child Cancer Foundation has helped our family so much! I liked going to The Family Place in Christchurch and the Beads of Courage programme the best. Mum says the general wrap-around support for the whole family was priceless.
Why should people care, and give?
Because it helps sick kids and their families when they are having a really hard time.
Thanks, Indi! Keep up the great mahi.
NZ Herald covered Indi’s story before the big skate. Have a read here.