If there’s one thing adventurous mates Alex and Diana love, it’s a challenge.
So when Alex asked Diana to join her in taking on the 100km Simpson Desert Ultra, she didn’t need to do much convincing.
A true test of stamina and courage, this event takes participants across towering sand dunes and rocky plains, in the heart of Australia’s iconic outback.
Many would find this incredible challenge daunting, if not impossible, but Di and Alex supported each other to get to the finish line.
“I love outback Australia and had never been to the Simpson desert. I also love getting out to remote parts of the world, including our beautiful and diverse country.” Diana explained.
“I consider myself quite mentally strong and it definitely helped doing it with a friend, not only during the event but also on the drive to and from Birdsville. Both our partners came to support us as well and we were both quite emotional and relieved when we crossed the finish line.”
Di and Alex both feel that taking on a physical and mental challenge is more rewarding when supporting a great cause. “It adds to the motivation and helps you not to give up on reaching your goal,” Diana says.
Luckily for us, the challenge coincided with Diana joining the fundraising team at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. This new career move inspired her and Alex to do something to help people with cancer and their families.
“It was great to undertake a huge challenge while also thinking of those who are facing much larger life challenges at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse’ Diana explained.
“We knew the funds would be put towards the fantastic services and resources at the hospital.”
To date, Diana and Alex have raised an incredible $3,000. We are so grateful for their amazing efforts that will bring hope to so many of our patients and their families.
Diana encourages anyone thinking of taking on a challenge like the Simpson Desert Ultra, to dive in and do it. “Life is short. Experiences like this that create lasting memories and are incredibly rewarding in so many ways. Go for it!”
If you’re planning to challenge yourself to raise funds for Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, we’d love to hear your story! Please contact us on development.office@lh.org.au
