Seven Marathons in Seven Days

Wade Dixon from Buderim Ward (congregation), Sunshine Coast Stake (diocese) of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, earlier this year chose to run 7 marathons in 7 days across Australia to raise money for Bravehearts, a leading Australian Child Protection organisation. Wade successfully raised over $14000 during his months of diligent preparation.

"It actually is a massive mental challenge," the 29-year-old said. He progressively increased his running to 3 hours a day in preparation for the 42.2km marathon distance every day for a week, that he needed to run.

Wade was drawn to the cause in support of someone close to him that had been a victim of abuse as a young child. He remarked that Bravehearts offered incredible support to victims and their families, but were also extremely proactive in working with schools. They educate children of the warning signs, to try and prevent others becoming victims of child sexual abuse.

"A week of pain is worth it if I can help even one child not to have to go through this," Wade said.

The first marathon was in Perth on the 25^th of June. At the end of the marathon he would fly to the next state to run again the following day.

Three work colleagues ran with him in the Gold Coast Marathon on July 1, the final leg of the gruelling challenge.

“I feel privileged and extremely blessed at being able to participate. Heavenly Father provided me with the miracles before and during the experience to allow me to complete what I’d set out to do."