By Jed Lanyon
A father son duo are walking across the state to raise funds and awareness for Type 1 Diabetes.
Avondale Heights pair Colin and James Charles are currently on a road trip that will take them from the northernmost point of Victoria near Mildura, to the southernmost point at Wilson’s Promontory while walking 21 kilometers in 21 days.
Day 13 of their trip saw them arrive at Healesville for a two night stay, before venturing off to Gembrook to complete another 21 kilometres. The pair spoke to Star Mail about their journey.
“I’ve got Type 1 Diabetes and I’ve had it for 13 years and just recently we came up with this idea to raise awareness and funds for Diabetes Australia. So we’ve started this walk doing 21 kilometres everyday for 21 days,” James said.
The pair wear bright yellow hoodies featuring logos to highlight their feat. They said it’s helpful as a conversation starter where they will explain why they’re taking part in the daily walks.
They started at Lindsay Point, about an hour and a half from Mildura. Then to Ouyen, down to a small town called Hopeton, Dadswells Bridge then to Castlemaine before arriving in Healesville.
“For me I’m feeling alright. I’m feeling better than I thought I would. Dad not so much, I think he’s got a few blisters on his feet,” James said. “The last few days have been a bit hard, we’re starting to get heavy legs and heavy muscles, sore legs and feet.”
They’ve had to endure changing weather conditions from 30+ degrees to mornings of about 5 degrees celsius in Castlemaine.
“We’re not trying to race anyone or get to a particular place at any point in time, we’re just enjoying our time while we’re walking.”
Their walk in Healesville took them around River Street, along the golf course where they came across a mob of kangaroos and then were able to chat to some locals to share their cause.
“It’s a beautiful place. The Yarra Valley is gorgeous and there are some great walking tracks. It’s nice to be able to walk where people can see you and they ask what are you doing? Why have you got the yellow jumpers on?” Colin said.
“People are surprised when we tell them but mainly they are supportive and will say well done,” James said. “My goal is to raise $10,000 and so far we’re at $4600.”
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system is activated to destroy the cells in the pancreas which produce insulin, according to Diabetes Australia. The cause of the autoimmune reaction is not yet known. Type 1 diabetes is not linked to modifiable lifestyle factors. There is no cure and it cannot be prevented.
To learn more about the fundraiser and to donate to Diabetes Australia, visit: https://bit.ly/2QbggSR
