The ANZAC Day Challenge

The ANZAC Day Challenge

Post
Subscribe

Posted 2016-01-08 by Mila Woodfollow

Sat 23 Apr 2016

Some of us have been directly affected or have known someone who has suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD is a serious mental health problem than can manifest after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event like war, an assault or disaster.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics , there are 1.4 million Australian who are afflicted by this debilitating condition at any given time, thus, making PTSD the second most common mental health disorder.

PTSD can affect people in all walks. The career that someone has built can easily be destroyed. Families are torn apart and in worst case scenario, the sufferer is driven to suicide. The number of the army personnel who have returned from deployment suffering from PTSD is quite disturbing. The Australian Army website states that less than 2% of defence personnel, who were in operational deployment, develop PTSD.



But a US study found, 9% of veterans return from Afghanistan and Iraq with PTSD. However a year after deployment, this number increases to 31%. We've heard and read stories about the lack of support our troops receive once they return from deployment.

Transitioning into a regular life is quite a challenge. To lead a normal life and return reasonably unscathed from their experience is indeed a great feat. We've read and heard of the soldiers who commit suicide.

Although there is no confirmation as to how many veteran have taken their lives, the facts remain that a number or returnees who are suffering from PTSD had contemplated the inevitable.

But who else cares for the well-being of these men and woman who have devoted, and some lost their lives to ensure that we ordinary Australians are safe and tucked away from the ugly face of war?

Organisation like Soldier On is one of them.



Soldier On is a private non-profit organisation who help support Australian men and woman who have been physically and psychologically wounded in battle, training or other exercises whilst employed by different government agencies including DFAT, AFP, Customs, Immigration and Border Protection.

The organisation focuses on areas such as enhancing rehabilitation, adventurous events, community events, employment and education.

Soldier On is not a part of Legacy, RSL, or the Department of Veteran Affairs but nonetheless work side by side with these organisations to ensure the success of the support rendered to Australia's service personnel.

Regular events are held to raise the much-needed funds, thereby ensuring the success of organisation.

One of those events is The ANZACDay Challenge which will be held on the 23rd of April (Saturday) 2016. It is a fun run/walk to be completed within the 24 hours limit. The event is not only physically but also mentally challenging. You will be blazing and trailing across through Sydney's iconic National Parks.

The event will start at dawn from Manly Dam memorial , then across the spectacular sceneries of Kuringai and Garigal National Park , then finally finishing at St Ives Showground. The event is split into three legs.



Leg 1 - Manly Dam to St Ives Showground (35km)
Leg 2 - Showground to Bobbin Head return (25km)
Leg 3 - Showground to Duffys Forest return (40km)

To those who want to participate but prefer the short distance, the other options are below;

The Lone Pine 65km Challenge – (comprising legs 2 and 3)
The Nek 40km Challenge – (comprising leg 3)
The Hill 60 25km Challenge – (comprising leg 2)

Last year's event has risen close to $130, 000 so it is anticipated that the 2016 event will hopefully raise more. This great cause will not only provide the much-needed funds but also will test your tenacity deeming you physically stronger mentally able to deal with adversities.

By changing on Saturday 23rd April, which is prior to ANZAC day, it will allow the participants to be involved in the event and the commemorations of ANZAC Day.

So make sure you mark 23rd of April, Saturday on your calendar and participate in this invaluable fund-raising event.

If you are not able to participate, but are willing to donate, then please visit this site .

#anzac_day
#charity
#community_events
#north_sydney
#outdoor
#parks
#april
!date 23/04/2016 -- 23/04/2016
%wnsydney
175168 - 2023-06-15 15:03:36

Tags

Free
Outdoor
Festivals
Music
Markets
Nightlife
Fundraisers
Family_friendly
Community
Arts_culture
Food_drink
Educational
Random
Theatre_shows
Holiday
Copyright 2024 OatLabs ABN 18113479226