Walking for Russell - Now 56 Years Supporting Kids with Cerebral Palsy
In 1971, just before my grandfather, Russell Whitmont OBE, lined up on William Street for the very first City to Surf he had secured sponsorship from family and friends to make a donation in aid of the then Spastic Centre of NSW.
Little could he have imaged that he was starting a fundraising tradition that would still be going strong 55 years later!
The Spastic Centre is now called the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. The sponsorship event is now STEPtember instead of the City to Surf. Sadly, Pappa is no longer with us so it is me that is now seeking your sponsorship, not he.
Pappa raised money in this way for 30 years and it was my great pleasure to run with him for around 10 of these races. When he could no longer run, he asked me to take over for him and this was also my pleasure.
These days my family also join in so this year all 4 of us will commit to walking 10, 000 steps every day during the month of STEPtember. That's 1.2 MILLION steps between us. Our team is, once again, called "Walking for Russell".
Over 55 years, we've raised over $250, 000 for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Will you help us to grow this figure?
Every dollar raised will support life-changing research, treatment, services and assistive technologies to help people with cerebral palsy.
My Fundraising
My fundraising could help provide:
0
therapy kits for babies with cerebral palsy.
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early response therapy sessions for babies with cerebral palsy.
Amount I've raised for people with cerebral palsy
My Steps
Steps
0
My goal
300,000
Impact Progress
Your donation can help me reach the next Impact Stage.
Communication
Help children find their voice through speech therapy.
Movement
Support physiotherapy that helps children build strength, movement and confidence.
Mealtimes
Provide therapies for children who face challenges with eating and drinking.
Independence
Give children greater independence through mobility equipment.
Family Support
Support families with guidance, care and practical help.
Regional Services
Bring vital care to babies who need it most in rural and regional areas.
