Breast cancer survivors and their families were among 200 people who helped paint Springfield pink for the community’s first International Women’s Day Fun Run, presented by Queensland X-Ray.

The ‘Sea of Pink’ that swept through Brisbane and dozens of regional Queensland communities including Springfield has raised an incredible $1.78 million to fight breast cancer.

Runners, joggers and walkers completed a 5km course from Mater Private Hospital Springfield to Mater Health Hub, Springfield to help raise money for breast cancer research, services and equipment.

Brookwater cancer survivor Maria Jenner took part in the event with her 12-year-old daughter Penina and said it was “very overwhelming”.

“Having my daughter and family join in and meeting other families that went through the same struggles we did was the highlight for me,” Ms Jenner said.

“There are so many words to describe the event – it was emotional, exciting and empowering.”

Leading Springfield’s ‘Sea of Pink’ was Mater Private Hospital Springfield General Manager Suzanne Hawksley, Mater Cancer Care Centre Unit Manager Billy Jovanovic, Jordan MP Charis Mullen, Oxley MP Milton Dick and Springfield City Group Chief Executive Officer Raynuha Sinnathamby.

Ms Hawksley said Springfield’s first International Women’s Day Fun Run contributed to Queensland’s biggest breast cancer fund-raising event and highlighted the local community’s dedication to making a difference in the fight for breast cancer.

“It’s wonderful to see the local community come together to support the 20,000 Australian women who are diagnosed with breast cancer each year,” Ms Hawksley said.

“Springfield really got behind this first fun run to remember women who have lost their lives to breast cancer and to celebrate the women who have beaten breast cancer too.

“We really hoping to grow this event next year and have more members of the local community join us to help raise funds for this significant cause.”

Ms Jovanovic said the fun run plays an important role to increase breast cancer awareness and ways of prevention.

“The annual fun run is a timely reminder of the importance to self-exam, breast screen and undergo regular mammograms,” Ms Jovanovic said.

“Although there have been major advances in research and treatments for patients, early detection leads to more treatment options and a better chance for survival.”

The Finisher’s Village featured pink smoothies for participants and a cool down routine provided by Mater Health Hub, Springfield.