Surely, in the light of history, it is more intelligent to hope rather than to fear, to try rather than not to try. For one thing we know beyond all doubt: Nothing has ever been achieved by the person who says, `It can't be done.' Eleanor Roosevelt, You Learn By Living (1960) Matt, Nerida and The Savings Centre (TSC) team are stripping off their business suits, stripy ties, perfectly polished hair, and brief cases (does anyone actually use those anymore?) and are slipping into some shiny lycra, sweat bands and running shoes. No, we’re not referring to the Broker Olympics, (if that’s not a thing then it should be) we’re talking about The Savings Centre 12-month ‘Injecting Hope’ campaign that kicks off this October. #Team Punter has committed to running a whopping 5000km over the next year in an attempt to raise $10,000 for their 2017/2018 charity of choice, Insulin for Life (IFL). The kilometre tally kicks off with the Blackall 100km trail run in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland on October 21st. Why are we ‘running’ this campaign? The decision to support this organisation was a personal one for TSC Director, Matt Punter. Matt has type one diabetes and relies on insulin to live each and every day. In Australia we are fortunate enough to have a sophisticated medical system and diabetes support networks that provide insulin, testing strips, needles and other medical requirements for free, or highly subsidised. But not everyone in the world is so lucky. Fast Facts: - Diabetes is a global problem and three quarters of people with diabetes live in low and middle-income countries. - 50 per cent of people in developing countries cannot afford or access Insulin and diabetes supplies. - Around the world, large quantities of perfectly good, unexpired, unopened and unused insulin is thrown out with the trash. - The cost of insulin in some countries can be as much as 150% of a persons income - Governments in many countries do not provide or subsidise insulin for people with diabetes. Our chosen charity, IFL Global raises awareness on these issues and fundraises to support transport costs (the biggest barrier to keeping this operation going). Insulin for Life affiliates also collect in-date and unneeded insulin and other diabetes supplies, and ship them to developing countries where they are distributed free-of-charge to people in need. Instead of going to waste, these supplies save thousands of lives. We want to support this fantastic organisation and help to ensure these lifesaving supplies reach the people that need them most. The best way we know to help, is to step out of our comfort zone, set ourselves a challenge, and ask all of you amazing people to support us in return with donations. We would be ever so grateful if you can help. ‘Track’ our journey This challenge would even make Usain Bolt quiver in his sports shorts so we’ll need every bit of support we can get. Follow #TeamPunter through training, preparation and event participation online through facebook https://www.facebook.com/thesavingscentre/ and instagram. Leave us a motivational message (or 5000) to get us through the next 12 months and to raise awareness so that we can smash our $$$ goal out of the water. Want to know more? Interested in sponsoring? We’d love to hear from you. Media Enquiries: Social Swell, Dominique Kimber 0414 371 966 Sponsorship Enquries: Nerida Punter 0413 458 822