Thank you for making Thank a First Responder Day a success
NSW firefighter Mike Kelly will make a gruelling 100-mile Blue Mountains crossing later this year to raise awareness of the mental health and wellbeing challenges that first responders can face.
The Unseen Wounds 100-mile run will also raise money for Fortem Australia, an independent provider of mental health and wellbeing programs and services for first responders and their families.
Mike, a seasoned runner, plans to run from the Kangara Walls car park to Glenbrook Village on 3–4 October – a 160km journey through some of the Blue Mountains’ most iconic and toughest trails that he expects will take over 30 hours.
“It’s a journey to shine a light on the unseen wounds carried by our first responders and their families,” Mike said.
“Many people I know have PTSD or some form of mental distress that negatively affects them and their families.
“My father also went to war for the Australian Air Force and eventually died as a result and this had a terrible impact on myself and my family when I was only little. It’s one of the reasons Fortem’s support for families is particularly important to me.”
While Mike is planning the event as a solo run, he will be supported by aid stations and checkpoints along the way. He is also inviting keen runners to join him for part or all of the challenge.
Fortem CEO Michael Willing APM, a former first responder himself, praised Mike for undertaking this incredibly generous and awe-inspiring challenge.
“Taking on this run will be an extraordinary feat of endurance, grit, and determination, and on behalf of everyone at Fortem Australia, I extend my sincere gratitude to Mike for this initiative,” Michael said.
“The funds raised will help Fortem’s continue to support first responders and their families, the people who show up day in and day out for their communities.
“We’re in awe of your dedication, Mike, and proud to support you every step of the way.”
To support Mike’s challenge, visit the Unseen Wounds donation page at https://fortem-australia.grassrootz.com/unseen-wounds-100m