Chris understands how vital urgent healthcare is for outback communities, just as you do. After receiving emergency care in regional NSW, he's decided to run a marathon to raise funds for the service that saved his life.
Just months after major surgery to treat genetic heart disease, Chris has committed to an ambitious goal: running the elite global TCS Sydney Marathon and fundraising for the Flying Doctor and the families who need their help. The TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS is the newest Abbott World Marathon Major and is Australia's largest marathon.
Chris assumed he had a healthy heart. He tackled marathons, ultra-marathons and Ironman competitions, and had a demanding job as a high voltage electrician, often working in regional areas.
One day, on a job in Dubbo, he felt breathless and had a tight chest. “At the Emergency department at Dubbo Hospital, I found out I had an abnormal heart rhythm. I needed emergency retrieval by the Royal Flying Doctor Service to Sydney,” he said.
“The Flight Nurse escorted me from my bed and stayed right by my side throughout the flight as I lay strapped to an ECG. The service was there to get me closer to family, friends, and medical assistance - I felt really relieved.”
With a defibrillator fitted, back in strong health and in consultation with his doctors, Chris wanted to get back to what he loves, marathon running, and decided to fundraise for us.
“I keep myself fit at all times. This was an eye-opener, just how essential it is for everyday Australians. What better charity than the Royal Flying Doctor Service.”
We are urgently seeking volunteers to help at the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon. Please reach out to our Community Fundraising Manager, Steve Yerbury at fundraise@rfdsse.org.au - or sign up to run yourself!
