Trek is on track to ease arthritis

By Kath Gannaway
“THERE are more children with juvenile arthritis than with diabetes,” Garry Fletcher says.
“You’ll have one fund-raiser for arthritis for every 10 or 12 you have for cancer,” his wife and trek partner Doreen adds.
The Fletchers who last Thursday pulled into Healesville as part of their two year Trek Around Australia to raise funds for arthritis research, know a lot about arthritis.
They have raised $92,741.95 so far and their trek, making contact with communities in more than 602 towns and through media interviews, has helped spread awareness of arthritis and of the need for research dollars.
Yarra Ranges mayor Monika Keane and councillors Jeanette McRae and Noel Cliff were in Healesville to meet the couple who rolled in on their custom-made, three-wheeled motortrike.
“It’s very often the little towns which have really contributed and been absolute magic,” Mr Fletcher said accepting a cheque for $200 from Cr Keane.
Cr Keane said she was delighted to be able to make a donation from the Mayor’s Fund.
“Arthritis is something that affects a lot of our residents but also it is something that is a bit hidden. It’s not as out there as some of the other things people suffer from,” she said.
To follow the Fletchers’ journey, or for information on how to donate, visit www.trikearoundaustralia.com .au.
For information on arthritis visit www.arthritisaustralia.com.au.