Going the distance for the MDNSW Community

Bridget, Blake and Angela took on the Larapinta Adventure for different reasons, but with one shared purpose – to support the next generation of young people living with neuromuscular conditions.

Over five days, they crossed rugged terrain, slept beneath the stars and pushed themselves far beyond their comfort zones, all while fundraising for MDNSW’s programs for children and young people living with neuromuscular conditions.

Together, they’ve raised an incredible $14,682 towards their shared $15,000 target.

A personal challenge with a bigger purpose

For Bridget, the Larapinta Adventure was driven by her experiences as a mother to Jamie, who lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Adventure had always been important to her family. “We’ve always enjoyed discovering new places – Jamie is no exception,” Bridget said. As her son’s mobility changed, the family found new ways to keep doing what they loved, adapting their equipment so adventure could remain part of everyday life. “He is happiest hurtling along the beach, exploring high country rail trails and our local nature parks with the dog,” she said.

Bridget was also ready for an adventure of her own.

As a full-time carer for Jamie, she wanted time to focus on her physical and mental wellbeing. “Carers have lower health outcomes than others,” she said. “As a full-time carer, I need to stay reasonably fit, mentally and physically, for my family.”

Bridget described the experience as “almost a pilgrimage of sorts.” She said, “I trained for months and was expecting challenging terrain and long days. It did not disappoint.”

There were plenty of memorable moments along the way – sleeping in a swag in a dry riverbed by night, Ascending Mount Sonder before sunrise, taking in the vast and ancient landscapes, and sitting by warm campfires with good people. The highlight? “Crossing the freezing waters of Ormiston Gorge with a pack on my head!” Bridget said.

For Bridget, the challenge was also an opportunity to give back to the community her family has been a part of for 18 years. She has seen firsthand how MDNSW programs have helped her son Jamie build confidence, try new experiences and connect with other young people who understood his journey.  

“All young people look for sparks of inspiration and the opportunity to try new activities as part of finding their people, their path, their voice and themselves,” Bridget said. MDNSW programs gave Jamie a chance to experience activities with others who just get it. “As a teenager, he was able to spend time away from his parents, pushing himself just beyond his comfort zone while always being well supported. He returned home with stories, inspiration and a confidence that was a joy to see.“

Taking on the Larapinta Adventure was Bridget’s way of helping create those same opportunities for others.

Giving back to the community they support

For Angela and Blake, the Larapinta Adventure brought together two things they care deeply about: adventure and giving back.  

Over the past four years, they’ve volunteered as carers at MDNSW Overnight Breaks and Retreats. They’ve witnessed the impact that MDNSW programs can have on children and young people living with neuromuscular conditions.

Taking on the Larapinta Adventure was their way of supporting those experiences for future participants.

“I wanted to do something meaningful to ensure these programs and retreats can continue to run,” Blake said. “Taking on the Larapinta Trail felt like the perfect way to combine my love for adventure with my passion for making a difference.”

Their adventure took them across the breathtaking landscapes of Arrernte Country, where they shared stories with fellow hikers, tackled challenging terrain and even started one day with a 2am hike to watch the sunrise from the summit of Mount Sonder.

For Angela, it was the people who made the experience unforgettable. “What stood out to me most was the connection, resilience and kindness within our group, qualities that felt so reminiscent of the MDNSW community,” she said. “I’m incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to challenge myself, spend time in this special part of Australia and raise funds for an organisation that means so much to me.”

It starts with something you care about

Their Larapinta Adventure shows that fundraising can take many forms – from a major physical challenge to a barbeque or a raffle at your local community centre. Sometimes it simply starts with sharing a story and inviting others to be part of it.

What matters is choosing to get involved.

You can start your own community fundraiser, or help Bridget, Blake and Angela close the final gap and reach their $15,000 target.

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