Vivienne Quilliam was our top fundraiser as of 21 March and scored naming rights for the last day of March. Incredibly she has raised over $10,000 and Charged 147KMs so far. Vivienne's chosen to name this day in honour of her late husband Michael. Read more about their story below in Vivienne's words.
What inspired you to participate in the March Charge this year?
My late husband, Michael inspired me to participate in the March Charge. Michael was diagnosed with bowel cancer at the age of 49 in November 2015. He was given 12 months to live. He was incredibly resilient and took this diagnosis in his stride, willing to fight this disease with everything he had.
Michael was incredibly passionate about his family, so much so that he would face this health journey with a sole focus on spending time with those he loved and being able to do what he loved when he was able to.
Michael’s journey with cancer saw him have 48 rounds of chemotherapy over a consecutive period on a fortnightly basis. After which time tests revealed that there was no evidence of the disease! This was a miracle considering that he was given such a short time. For 18 months he did not require treatment and was able to return, unimpeded, to the things he loved like working full-time on the farm and spending time with his loved ones.
Sadly, the cancer returned, and Michael made the decision to continue on the chemotherapy regime, this was not an easy decision for him, but he chose to do it for his family. Every day was a challenge but he never complained and could always find something to be thankful for.
I am reminded of Michael’s incredible spirit to never give up despite the odds that we are sometimes faced with. He had the ability to make people laugh and was a great listener. His life touched so many with his enthusiasm, humility, and love. We miss him so much, every day.
Michael went to be with Jesus on the 14th of February 2022.
Tell us about your experience participating in the March Charge:
Initially, I set a fundraising goal of $2K and a fitness goal of 85KMs, after the first week I realised that I had so many supporters behind me in memory of Michael, so I raised the bar to $5k. Two weeks later I raised it again to $10K and upped my fitness activity to 150kms!
This has been the most incredible experience for me, and I have realised several things throughout the month of March:
- The support of family and friends - even internationally, has far exceeded my expectations. Michael was so loved and what better way to honour his life and be able to give to such a worthwhile cause.
- The fitness activity has been great for my mental health, it’s been a time for me to reflect on the 36 precious years that Michael and I had together. It has been a time for healing and a time to be thankful.
- I have definitely improved my walking speed and have enjoyed the beautiful nature around me as I have walked. Autumn was Michael’s favourite season and I have a much greater appreciation for this time of the year.
