24 hour challenge raises $600k for kids in 24 hour care

May 27, 2015

32 treadmills were kept in continuous motion for 24 hours from 22 to 23 May raising $629,000 for children in 24 hour care at Very Special Kids Hospice.

1,118 participants including celebrities, AFL players, politicians, and people that have been touched by Very Special Kids, joined forces to keep the treadmills going and raise as much money as possible.

House Rules Victorian contestants Bronik and Corrine, footy players Leigh Montagna and Grant Birchall, Stonnington Mayor Melina Sehr and State Member for Malvern Michael O’Brien, all jumped on a treadmill to motivate and entertain participants.

By the end of the 24 Hour Treadmill Challenge participants had covered 5,771 kilometers, guzzled 576 litres of water, listened to more than 500 songs, and far exceeded the event’s goal to raise $500,000 through donations from friends and family.

The funds raised will go to Very Special Kids Hospice, Victoria’s only children’s hospice, providing specialist care for children with life-threatening conditions.

Very Special Kids CEO Sarah Hosking says she’s astounded by the support from the community.

“The funds raised ensure we can continue to care for children with life-threatening conditions and their families. We’re extremely grateful for everything everyone has achieved,” she said.

Very Special Kids supports 900 Victorian families that are caring for children with life-threatening conditions. Its services can be accessed from a child’s diagnosis through bereavement, and include respite and end-of-life care at its children’s hospice and counselling for families.

The 24 Hour Treadmill Challenge was made possible through the support of The Fitness Generation, True and Seven News.