Running for Dad: 6.3kms a Day in October for Dementia Australia

By Tyler Wakefield

My Activity Tracking

195
kms

My target 196 kms

I'm raising funds for people with dementia!

This October, I'm embarking on a journey to raise funds and awareness for a cause that's close to my heart. I'm dedicating my daily run to my father, a 63-year-old who is bravely battling vascular dementia and brittle diabetes. 

Witnessing his struggle has been both heart-wrenching and inspiring. I love him unconditionally and am so proud of him and my Mum who is supporting him through so much. I miss him dearly and I'm determined to make a difference.

Throughout the entire month of October, I'm committing to run 6.3 kilometres each day. It's a modest effort in comparison to the immense challenges my father faces daily, but it's a symbolic gesture of support, love, and determination. 

I'll be hitting the treadmill at home, but if the weather permits and I can steal some moments away from work, the dogs, and my beautiful wife and kids, I might even take my runs outdoors.

Why 6.3kms a Day?

The 6.3 kilometres I run daily symbolise the young age he has been impacted by this terrible condition, his strength and resilience my father demonstrates in his battle with dementia.

It also stands for the determination of countless individuals who face this debilitating disease. It's a reminder that every step we take can make a difference in the lives of those affected.

How Can You Help?

I'm setting a goal to raise $630 in support of Dementia Australia, an organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people living with dementia, their families, and carers. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will go a long way in supplying essential support, resources, and research to combat dementia.

Please consider donating to this important cause. Your support will not only honour my father but will also help other families on their challenging journey with dementia.

All funds raised will support the work of Dementia Australia to provide vital support services for people living with dementia, their families and carers. These services include counselling, support groups, education and training.

Join Me in the Fight

I invite you to join me in this journey, not only by donating but also by spreading the word. Share this fundraiser with your friends, family, and social networks. Together, we can raise awareness, funds, and hope for those affected by dementia.

Let's make October a month of positive change, love, and support. Thank you for being a part of this meaningful effort.

With thanks for your support,
Tyler

My Achievements

Received first gift

Added a profile photo

Shared page on social media

Updated my page

Donated to self

Reached fundraising target

My Updates

Mission Accomplished: Running for Dad, and Beyond

Tuesday 31st Oct

Hey everyone,

Today marks a special moment in my journey: I've completed my final run in this month-long fundraising challenge. It's been a rollercoaster of determination, resilience, and, most importantly, unwavering support. And I'm excited to share this moment with you.

When I started this journey, it wasn't about the distance or the days. It was about honouring my Dad, who battles with dementia, and making a difference for Dementia Australia. And today, I can proudly say: Mission Accomplished 🏃‍♂️.

Throughout these 31 days, there were tough moments, sore muscles, and times when I questioned my sanity. But I did it. This challenge is officially in the books.

The generosity, support, and encouragement from all of you have been absolutely overwhelming. Whether it was through your donations, your words of encouragement, or simply following my journey, every bit of support means the world to me.

What started as a personal mission to honour my Dad and raise funds for Dementia Australia has far exceeded my wildest expectations. I set out with a goal, and together, we've achieved seven times that amount. It's a testament to the incredible power of community and compassion.

At 37 years old and after enduring five operations, my body has pushed through, reminding me that determination and mindset are attributes worth strengthening.

As I wrap up this final run, I'm left with a heart full of gratitude. The funds we've raised are more than just numbers; they're hope, support, and a powerful contribution to the fight against dementia.

Let's take a moment to celebrate this collective achievement. Your belief in this cause and your unwavering support have made a real impact. And together, we can continue to support this vital cause.

So, on this Halloween, as my treat to you, there will be no more daily posts. But our journey doesn't end here. Let's keep spreading awareness, supporting each other, and making a difference.

Thank you all once again for being a part of this incredible journey. It's an experience I'll always treasure.

Happy Halloween, and cheers to our shared success 🙏🏼🏁🏆.

With immense gratitude,
Tyler

Day 24: Running Through the Storm

Tuesday 24th Oct

Hey everyone,

Today, I write this update with a fever, a sore throat, pounding headaches, and while running a bit of trouble catching my breath. Yep, it's safe to say I'm feeling a bit under the weather. But you know what? The show must go on.

I laced up my sneakers, stepped on the treadmill, and embarked on today's 6.3 kilometers, even though every step felt like a marathon. Why, you ask? Because we're on a mission, and there are just seven days and seven runs left.

This challenge isn't just about good days when the sun is shining and the wind is at my back. It's about the tough days when the weather or my own body work against me. It's about pushing through despite the hurdles and showing that we can get it done, no matter what.

I'm thrilled to share that we've raised over $4200 for Dementia Australia. The support and generosity of you all has been nothing short of amazing. It's a testament to the kindness and compassion of the people in our community, and I can't thank you enough.

Every dollar raised is another step towards making a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia, and it's all thanks to you. 

With just one week remaining, I'm excited to see how far we can push this challenge. Let's keep that positive spirit alive and keep making an impact. We've come this far, and we're not backing down now.

Thank you for being part of this incredible month. We're almost there.

Cheers,

Tyler

Day 16: Over the Hump, Beyond Expectations

Monday 16th Oct

Guess what? We're officially over the hump – Day 16 of my 6.3kms a day challenge, and I can't begin to describe the journey so far. We're more than halfway there in terms of days run and total distance covered.

Over these 16 days, I've logged some serious kilometres. I've hit the treadmill, ventured outdoors when the weather's been kind, and powered through some moments when the body and mind just weren't cooperating. It hasn't been easy, but every step has been worth it.

One milestone that's left me speechless is the incredible support we've received. I set out with a goal in mind, but together, we've blown that target out of the water. We've raised over five times as much as my original goal, and I can't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude.

To be honest, my muscles are sore, and the occasional twinge reminds me that I'm pushing my limits. But you know what? Determination and willpower are what I am relying on when it gets tough and it is a good lesson for me and my girls to show that if you set your mind to it, of what you can achieve. There are still fifteen more days to go, and I'm not giving up. I am committed to seeing this challenge through.

It's because of the unending support and generosity of people like you that I find the strength to keep going. Every donation, every message of encouragement, it all means the world to me.

I want to take a moment to appreciate each and every one of you who has joined me on this journey. You're not just supporting me; you're supporting the cause of Dementia Australia and all the families touched by dementia. Your generosity is making a real impact, and I can't thank you enough.

Let's keep the momentum rolling, keep pushing those boundaries, and keep making a difference. Thank you all for your incredible support, and let's keep those positive vibes going.

Cheers,
Tyler

10 Days In: Running, Reflections, and Relying on Your Support

Tuesday 10th Oct

I can't believe it's already been 10 days into this 6.3kms a day challenge for Dementia Australia! Time is flying by, but each day has been an adventure (or struggle) in its own right.

I've laced up my joggers, hit the treadmill, not yet pounded the pavement, but have racked up a minimum of 63 kilometers over the past 10 days. That's a whopping 440-480 minutes of pure dedication, determination and running. I haven't found it as easy as I hoped.

Some days, it's the mind that struggles. Thoughts creep in, trying to convince me that maybe a walk can count today to let the joints recover. But I push through because I remember why I'm doing this. I'm doing it for my dad, for all those families dealing with the challenges of dementia, and for the hope of a brighter future.

Other days, it's the body that feels the fatigue. The muscles ache, and my knees occasionally remind me that they're not what they once were following reconstruction and Wakefield genes. But I keep going because I know that the discomfort I feel is nothing compared to the battles faced by those living with dementia.

Through it all, what keeps me going and fuels my determination is the incredible support I've received. I'm truly blown away by the kindness and generosity of people who have donated to this cause. Your support has been nothing short of inspiring, and it drives me to keep pushing my limits.

I want to take a moment to appreciate each and every one of you who is following my journey and supporting this fundraiser. Your encouragement, whether through words or donations, means the world to me.

We've got 21 days to go in this challenge, and I'm excited about the road ahead. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.

So, stay tuned, keep coming back each day, and let's keep this momentum going strong.

Thank you all for being a part of this incredible journey!

Cheers,

Tyler

How am I only 3 days in!?

Tuesday 3rd Oct

Hello Everyone,

I wanted to take a moment to express my overwhelming gratitude for the incredible support I've received in the first three days of my 6.3kms a day challenge for Dementia Australia. Your kindness and generosity have amazed me, and I can't thank you enough.

I knew this challenge wouldn't be easy, but I'm determined to see it through. Each day brings its own set of challenges, and today, it was my dodgy reconstructed knee that decided to make its presence felt. The joints are feeling the strain, but it’s nothing compared to what those living with dementia deal with so I will push on.

The weather hasn't been on my side either; the heat can be relentless and energy-sapping. But in moments of exhaustion, I remind myself why I'm doing this. I think of my dad and all the families out there dealing with the difficulties of dementia. Their resilience inspires me to push through the discomfort and fatigue.

Music at times helps provide me with that extra burst of motivation to get the next 100 metres done and get closer to the finish of the run for the day.

I can’t believe I have already beaten the fundraising goal I set at the start of this challenge and so am setting a new goal to raise as much money as possible for Dementia Australia. Every step and every donation help individuals and families of those affected by dementia.

Thank you for following, putting up with my daily posts and your support. Let’s get this done.

Cheers
Tyler

Thank you to my Supporters

$101

Gary Kiellor

Vicki and I are so proud of what you have done. We had such great times with you and your mum and dad.

$100

Amel Bilajac

Absolutely amazing achievement mate. That took strength most people cannot muster in their entire life

$31.20

Nicole & Adam Lloyd

Well Done Tyler xxx … such a great cause. ❤️

$58.02

Bridge Family

Wonderful effort Tyler, in our thoughts 🥰🙏

$100

Jackie And Ryan Patterson

Smashing it Tyler well done!!

$31.65

Ruth Robinson

Awesome work. Thanks for the education for this dreaded disease.

$31.65

Jennifer Clegg

Sending love to you all from your cousin in the UK

$21.10

Nicole, Andrew, Mila And Noah

You’re a good man, Tyler!

$52.75

Denis N Camille

I tip my hat to you, Tyler! You are doing a very worthy cause.

$21.10

Donna Stewart

$31.65

Sonia

$31.65

Colin Mock

$50

Sylvia Lianto

Best wishes and good luck with this good course Sylvia

$31.65

Margaret Teo

Thanks for your community spirit. Go Tyler !

$31.65

Jon Cat Jabba Didi

Keep going Tyler, on the home stretch now!

$21.10

Anonymous

$105.50

Debra Wakefield

Well done Tyler! Merci beaucoup!

$208

Mark Gocher

A cause very close to my heart, very proud of what you are doing mate

$31.65

Lauren Fong

Go Tyler, what an amazing effort!

$31.65

Sydney Trains/mike Sharpe

Stay awesome buddy

$105.50

Lindy Perner

I admire your commitment.

$31.65

Allan Jackson

Go Tyler building your physical fitness and mental wellbeing plus raising awareness and funds for a great cause. Your father would be proud of you!

$15

Suzane Pippi

$57.20

Chloe

Keep going Tyler proud of you ! Uncle Mark is too yay xx

$31.65

Zoe Justin Lexi Rafa

Go Ty! From Zoe, Justin, Lexi & Rafa

$31.65

Brana Ravichelvan

Great effort Tyler!

$21.10

Aileen Teo

$105.50

Gary Wakefield

A loving,caring son.Proud of you Tyler.Uncle Gary

$150

Bree Wakefield

Proud of you Tyler and so would dad ❤️🙏 keep killing it

$31.65

Cathy Suryasumirat

$1.02k

Gerald And Brenda Wakefield

We are proud of you Tyler.Gran and grandad

$101

Gc Boat Management

$31.65

Teagan Mock

$50

Alysha Hallard

Good on you, Tyler! Massive effort already.

$20

Linda Varrica

Such a beautiful act to support a very meaningful cause Tyler, best wishes!

$31.65

Emily Robinson

Well done - you’re going great guns bud!

$50

Mel, Aria & Thea

$31.65

Sam And Brad Wynn

Wishing you all the best. Keep going. You've got this! Love, Brad and Sam.

$31.65

Leanne Roberts

Wonderful effort Tyler

$58.02

Craig Morton

$31.65

H

Make sure to stretch and warm up properly mate!

$55

Jo Mock

$55

Bradley Shaw

Great work Tyler. From the Shaw’s

$31.65

Pino Di Iorio

$211

Colin Shaw

$630

Nathan Giffin

Crush it for your dad mate.

$21.10

Randy Cheffirs

$31.20

Lauren Gocher

Go Tyler! You are amazing! Such a great cause! All the best and big hugs to you and your family xo Loz, Kyan & Mia xo

$31.65

Carol Turner

$21.10

Aunty Nat

Love from Aunty Nat

$66.46

Miguel Vieira

An amazing cause close to my heart. Great work Tyler

$31.65

Taryn Griffith

Good luck Tyler, you’re doing a great thing! x

$21.10

Mary Joyce Lo

Good on you, Tyler!

$57.20

Morag Cahill

Good luck Tyler!

$105.50

Alan Wilton

Nice work mate! Really good cause. Hopefully I'll see you running up those hills around ours soon!

$58.02

Leighton Smart

Great effort mate

$10.55

Andrew And Jenna Prior

An amazing cause, thinking of you and the fam Tyler, our thoughts are with your Dad.

$100

Diane

$31.65

Mark Frost

$104

Ajk Building Solutions

Well done, we are all supporting you and Mark 🩷

$31.65

Dean Pepper