Helping Starship Who Once Helped Me

Kia ora koutou,

This March, I’m participating in the “Kilometres for Kids” Fundraiser where I’m challenging myself to run 150km in the month of March to fundraise for Starship. Specifically, these funds will go towards providing life-saving services, such as NZ’s only flying Paediatric Intensive Care Unit - the Starship Air Ambulance.

A fun fact people may not know about me is that I was born with congenital toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii transmitted from mother to fetus across the placenta. In 85% of cases, it is asymptomatic, but can still have long-term health consequences (e.g blindness) if not treated. My condition was discovered at around the age of 5, at which point I had already permanently lost a significant amount of vision in both my eyes. Starship essentially saved my vision, so when I heard of this opportunity to give back, I thought what better way to do it than through something I love doing - running!

My situation cannot compare to the other life-restricting conditions that hundreds of kids across Aotearoa suffer with today. Any donations are appreciated, and with your help, my goal of $500 will help improve the quality of life for kids who are so deserving of it.

I will update you all on my journey and appreciate any koha you are willing and able to provide!