The Walk4Rita Step Challenge, now in its 3rd year, raises much-needed funding for pancreatic cancer care and research while celebrating the vital role connection and community plays in mental and physical well-being in the face of adversity.

The essence and spirit of the Walk-for-Rita National Step Challenge were born when mid-2021, Viridian’s HR Director, Rita Agati, was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. The Viridian team responded by creating our first National Step Challenge in July 2021, raising awareness and funds for the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre while directly supporting the Agati family.  

Unfortunately, Rita passed away in early December 2021, but her legacy remains.

Over 1,000 walkers have joined the challenge in the first two years, and more than $70,000 has been raised. In our inaugural year of 2021, collectively, we walked five times around Australia. In 2022 we walked twice around the world with five corporate teams outside Viridian and International walkers joining the challenge.

We have funded the roll-out of over 2,000 GP models to help GP diagnose Pancreatic Cancer at a much earlier stage – a critical stepping stone to give sufferers a fighting chance.

In 2023 we are asking for support from our broader community to help in the fight. 100% of all funds raised are passed onto the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre at Epworth, and 100% of the Centre is funded by the generosity of donors who share our vision to provide hope and improve the life expectancy and prognosis for people with pancreatic cancer. So please give if you can, or if you would like to join the National Step Challenge commencing 1 July, you can register your interest below.

As Chair of the Viridian Foundation Ltd, I extend my warmest wishes to you and welcome your interest and support of this worthy cause.

Michael Ehrentraut

Chair – Viridian Foundation