Orana Dance Centre will transform into a sea of black, white, and zebra stripes for its annual “Zebra Week” fundraiser in support of NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia (NECA).

It’s a cause close to the heart of studio principal Zoey Williams, who is living with stage four Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs), a rare and often misunderstood cancer that can take years to diagnose.

“It took over five years to get a correct diagnosis,” Zoey said.

“If by sharing my experience someone else recognises the signs sooner, that’s a win.”

Neuroendocrine tumours develop from hormone-producing cells found throughout the body, most commonly in the digestive system and lungs.

Because the symptoms can mimic everyday conditions like asthma, IBS, or even stress, it’s not unusual for people to wait five years or more before finding answers. By that time, around 60 per cent of cases are already advanced (stage four).

Typical symptoms can include flushing or facial redness; stomach pain or cramping; diarrhoea or bowel changes; wheezing or breathlessness; and fatigue or unexplained weight loss.

For those in regional NSW, accessing the right testing and treatment adds another layer of challenge. Specialised Dotatate Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans, which help locate NETs, are only available in Sydney and Newcastle. PRRT (Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy), a leading treatment that delivers radiation directly to tumour cells, can only be accessed in select Sydney hospitals.

That means long distance travel for many rural and regional patients, including Zoey, to access care and follow up. It’s one reason the Orana Dance Centre community is so passionate about helping fund better access and research.

Money raised during Zebra Week will go directly to NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia, supporting research into early detection and targeted therapies; education for patients and doctors; national awareness campaigns; and specialist training to help GPs recognise NETs sooner.

Locally, a small group of Central West NETs patients meets in Dubbo every few months to share stories and offer support.

“If you’re in the region and living with NETs, please reach out,” said Zoey.

“We’d love to connect you with our local group, no one should go through this alone.”

Orana Dance Centre extends heartfelt thanks to its students, families, and the Dubbo community for embracing Zebra Week and helping spread the word.

More information about the fundraiser can be obtained from Orana Dance Centre.