I have had an extraordinary life to date and I am incredibly grateful for it. I have however, experienced family violence first hand in my time as a Police Officer in WA and unfortunately also as a supporting friend. The stats don’t lie when it comes to the women and children who lose their lives every year due to family violence and the number of those who run and are currently in hiding just staggers me. I have an amazing network of people who I know all care about their communities and I am now calling on you!
I care wholeheartedly about bringing these statistics down to zero, and ultimately reducing the need for charities like Impact. Impact are incredible - they provide support to those who survive family violence and support and guidance to those trying to escape family violence. Beautifully, they also recognize and name (where possible) those who have paid the ultimate price and the red shoe tribute causes many strong individuals to shed a tear. So I asked myself - how do I support a charity like Impact? How can I make a difference? Yes I can attend their “wrap and pack” days and wrap gifts and support them. But how can I do more?
I thought about my adventures and I decided my toughest challenge yet would be for the memory of those who have lost their life at the hands of someone who once said “I love you”. My toughest challenge yet will help those in the same situation escape this life and be safe and be well. I will run 100miles in the Alpine region on the 17th April 2021 as part of Running Wild's Alpine challenge. The 100 mile (160 km) course takes in 6 major climbs with 7,600 m of ascent and descent including Mt Feathertop, Mt Hotham, Mt McKay, Spion Kopje, Mt Nelse and Victoria’s highest mountain, Mt Bogong, plus five river crossings.
Every km, I will be thinking of those that have lost the battle, and those that continue to fight the battle.
Get behind this amazing charity and support those escaping family violence. Donate your dollars or your time, and spread the word on the amazing work that Impact do.
Let’s all work together to reduce family violence!
You go kid!