Dexter Heffernan and his family have more reason than most to support Run Wollongong.
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One hundred per cent of the proceeds from the October 16 event go towards the redevelopment of Wollongong Hospital’s children’s ward – a place five-year-old Dexter has spent much of his young life.
Born prematurely, the Kiama Downs boy suffered periventricular leukomalacia, a form of brain damage, and as a result has cerebral palsy and impaired vision.
At 13 months he was also diagnosed with cancer and underwent chemotherapy and surgery after lesions were discovered in his liver and lungs.
Dexter’s mum, Lenice, said a group of their family and friends were joining them for the fourth annual Run Wollongong to raise vital funds for the kids’ ward.
‘’Our son has a complex medical history and the Wollongong Hospital children’s ward became our second home during 2012-2013 for chemotherapy related treatment,’’ she said.
‘’Furthermore, due to his premature birth, he has a number of chronic health-related conditions, which result in numerous hospitalisations for pneumonia, asthma and other such infections.
‘’He has taken a number of ambulance rides to the emergency department and even a helicopter transfer to Sydney. The Wollongong Hospital staff have been responsible for saving our son’s life on a number of occasions and for that we are eternally thankful.’’
Run Wollongong has raised over $350,000 since its first race day in 2013 and registrations are strong in the lead-up to the fourth event.
Offering events for all ages and abilities, participants can register in the Run Australia 12km run, Cotton On Body 6km run, Typo 6km family walk or the Cotton On KIDS 1km run.
At the finish line precinct, there’ll be live entertainment including a performance by Kanahooka singer/songwriter and X Factor 2015 winner Cyrus Villanueva. There will also be interactive stalls, rides and kids’ activities.
Run Australia manager Amy Bett said the organisation was extremely proud of what they have been able to accomplish for children’s health across the country.
‘’Run Australia is an initiative by the Cotton On Group and is working towards improving the healthcare of young people in regional Australia,’’ she said.
‘’We run to make a difference to Aussie kids and facilitate a fun and exciting event, where people can run, walk or roll the streets of their local community, while raising much needed funds for local children’s health-related projects.’’
- Run Wollongong will be giving away one St George Illawarra Dragons jersey signed by the 2016 team. To go into the running for it, you need to register before 11.59pm on October 9, 2016 and explain why you’re registering. The organiser’s favourite entry will receive the prize on stage at the event.
