The annual Dancing With the Stars-style event enlists 14 hopefuls to tear up the dance-floor at a gala dinner on June 1 and raise money for cancer services in the Illawarra.

Cancer Council statistics show one in two Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85. Sadly it has already touched many of the 14 contestants.

Read More: Illawarra cancer survivors' inspiring stories in new book

Luke Rollinson lost his right eye to cancer when he was a toddler, while both his children have also undergone treatment in their "early days".

"My daughter had chemo at 12 days old - they are in a good space at the moment," Mr Rollinson said.

"Any opportunity I get to raise money for a charity of this nature ... I'm happy to do that."

WIN TV journalist Katie Gallagher lost her best friend Tess to brain cancer in 2016, she was only 22-years-old and was studying medicine with hopes to work in developing countries.

"She was one of those people who were too gifted at everything ... but so humble," Miss Gallagher said. "I still remember the day that I found out and I went to the shops to buy her a 'get well' card and I was just numb."

She said she couldn't pass up the opportunity because she loves dancing, but moreso she loves Tessa and still misses her every day.

Read More: Woonona artist opens her home as a gallery to raise money for charity

At Wednesday's launch for the event, Grant Plecas from the cancer council said the diversity of contestants was important to reach out to different sections of the community.

"Because the money that we raise goes directly back into our community," Mr Plecas said.

"To manage Alkira lodge, an accommodation facility at the hospital ... we also have a transport service that transports anyone who needs treatment."

For the next six weeks the "stars" will be putting their best foot forward and fund-raise their hearts out ahead of the gala dinner.

www.facebook.com/WollongongDanceForCancer