I was inspired to take on my first Inspired Adventure challenge because at the reasonably young age of 40 in October 2015, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. For about 5 months life was all about cancer, tests, treatment and then recovery. I was fortunate that I didn’t have to have chemotherapy, but ongoing hormone treatment provides its own challenges. Through all of this, I tried to remain positive but was looking for a way to make some sense of the horrid disease cancer is.  I got an email from the BCNA about their Tuscany and I finally felt like I had the chance to turn the negative situation into something positive.  I could fundraise for such an important cause, raise awareness for early detection, give for the benefit of others, and drive myself to regain my fitness all at once. I had my light bulb moment.

Participating in the trek is something completely outside of my comfort zone. It scares and excites me at the same time.  I haven’t travelled much but have always wanted to see more of the world, but to do it with a group of strangers is not something I’d normally do. I don’t worry about being physically fit; it’s the rest of the unknowns that scares me.

So far, I’ve raised around $1,400, which would not have been possible without the generosity of my parents, sister, grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins and some beautiful friends.

I’ve always been a fiercely independent person (just ask my mum), and got through every doctor’s appointment, looking after my house, working full time on my own (except one week my mum stayed with me after my breast surgery). Asking people to donate, come to events and to help out has been one of the hardest things for me to do. I don’t think I’ll ever be good at it!

Also, some of my fundraising plans had to be reconsidered, and now I am coming up with alternatives as the movie afternoon I’d planned didn’t sell as many tickets as I’d hoped, and corporate donations for a trivia night have been hard to obtain. I’m a hugely passionate baker, so morning teas through my various work locations will also play a part in raising funds, which is a double bonus cause I get to do something I enjoy, feed people I care about, all while doing something positive.

As hard as some parts of this have been, I’d encourage anyone looking to spread positivity and do good for others to get involved with an Inspired Adventure. Not only will you create awareness, but you will also learn about yourself too … isn’t that what this whole journey of life is about?

Become our Fundraiser of the Month to win a $50 donation to your fundraising page!

Take a picture whilst fundraising for your adventure and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with a fundraising focus will be our Fundraiser of the Month – it’s that easy!