Small steps to great strides

A new fundraising initiative is heading to Warwick and organisers are hoping that the community will step up and support the event.
Clare McHugh Von Stieglitz and her son Peter have decided to hold the inaugural Great Strides Walkathon for Cystic Fibrosis in Warwick on Sunday, October 21.
13-year-old Peter suffers from Cystic Fibrosis, his condition is considered a mild case as he has only been hospitalised four times so far for his condition.
“Keeping him out of hospital means a daily regimen of capsules, puffers, nebulised medication, physio, especially lots of sport, and a diet high in fat and salt,” Clare said.
“Throughout his life he has been supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Association in practical and inventive ways.
“As a baby, Association workers would come and perform his physio several times a week.
“In hospital they would bring along ‘Boredom Buster’ bags of games, magazines and treats to while away the fortnight.
“The Association provides practical, family and educational support and also supports research, which is increasing the life expectancy of kids born with cystic fibrosis – the most common genetic illness.”
Registrations open at 1pm at Queens Park, Warwick, with the walkathon starting at 2pm, involving a pleasant 2.5km flat walk around the Condamine, or, for the more adventurous, undertake the challenge walk of 3.7km.
Registration may also be completed online by going to www.greatstrides.com.au. This year, registration is free if you register online before the day.
Participants are encouraged to raise money via the fundraising website ‘Everyday Hero’.
All money raised from the Great Strides Walkathons across Australia goes to the Cystic Fibrosis Association.
Clare is keen to hear from anyone willing to volunteer on the day or businesses who would like to place a small promotional item in the goody bag provided to participants.
For more information, to donate money or to volunteer, please call the walkathon coordinator Clare McHugh Von Stieglitz on claremcvs@gmail.com or phone 07 4661 3886 or 0468 740 367. To register online please visit www.greatstrides.com.au.