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Back Story:

On January 15th I will be running The Kepler Challenge. A 60km trail that people usually walk over a couple of days. I’m aiming to fundraise $2,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, an organisation that has given so much to my family.   

In 2010, my Sister, Hazel Redmond became incredibly unwell with a life threatening illness called Encephalitis. We had moments when we were unsure whether Haze would ever be the same bubbly, empathetic and courageous human ever again, let alone survive. Hazel had to learn how to live her life again. She had to learn to read and walk in a straight line again. As a result of the illness she became extremely tired from tasks we wouldn’t even have to think twice about doing. 

Hazel did it tough, missing out on a lot of milestones most of us have experienced through our high school years. Although she’d never let on, it was hard. During this time, Mum came across the Make-A-Wish foundation and helped Hazel put an application in for a wish.  

Hazel’s wish was to meet the iconic fashion designer, Karen Walker. 

Hazel was granted this wish and I cannot tell you how much of a positive impact it has had on all parties. Karen has become Hazel’s mentor and friend and has guided Hazel with her decisions to pursue photography as a career. Hazel has a natural gift - dealing with people. Now, 11 years down the track, owns a very successful photo processing business,The Photo Shop, and is an up and coming architectural photographer where she has just shot for the cover of the latest NZ House and Garden magazine. 

The team at Make-A-Wish have become lifelong friends. Our family can not thank them enough for organising this once in a lifetime opportunity for Hazel. Hence why I feel so driven and grateful to be running and fundraising for Make-A-Wish. 

I’ve been running now for quite a fews years however, I have never attempted anything like this. A 60km trail race, with over 1000m climb. It excites and scares me at the same time. I hope to push myself and try to endeavour a challenge that may make or break my body and mind. It’s the least I can do for a foundation that has had such an influence on a very special sister I care a whole lot about.

Please get behind this cause. Tell your friends, your family, your workmates. Tell as many people as you can because Make-A-Wish needs your help to grant other people like Hazel a wish that could change their life.

If I haven’t convinced you enough. Have a look at the link to this video of Hazel, Make-A-Wish and Karen Walker 10 years after this milestone of a day.