RUNNERS, walkers and joggers can do their bit to help provide better hospital services for children throughout the Illawarra by taking part in the upcoming Run Wollongong event.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In its second year, Run Wollongong is a fund-raiser for the children's ward at Wollongong Hospital and the construction of the Illawarra Children's Assessment Unit, a specialised children's health hub to be built in North Wollongong.
In 2013, the event attracted 2532 participants and raised $107,500. That total was then matched by the Cotton On Foundation, bringing the total to $215,000.
The event is open to people of all ages and fitness levels, with a six or 12-kilometre run offered, as well as a six-kilometre family fun walk.
One family who will be taking part is the Chatfields of Kiama.
Andrew and Maria Chatfield and their children Fletcher, 9, Elliott, 7, and Somerset, 4, are family ambassadors for the event this year.
They have a special connection to the event, given all three children have spent time in the children's ward at Wollongong.
"Over the past four years or so we've spent a lot of time in the children's ward, and when this opportunity came to help out we said we would do anything to help," Mr Chatfield said.
"We'll be taking all the kids, and we'll have a newborn by then as well so it's really going to be a family affair."
All money from Run Wollongong registrations go towards the two causes it supports.
Mr Chatfield has encouraged anybody to register, even if they can't physically take part.
"If you can't actually get there you can register as a virtual runner, which is still a great way to help out.
"I'd really encourage everybody to do that.
"I think everybody has either spent time in the children's ward or at least known somebody who has, and they do amazing work there and deserve all the support they can get."
Run Wollongong is on Sunday, October 19. To register visit the runaustralia.com website.