A young Maitland resident has been inspired by her vision-impaired cousins to tackle a huge challenge for charity.
In fact, 20-year-old Tillie Smith is “stepping up to restore sight”.
She’s embarking on the 100km For Fred’s Big Run this month to make a difference in the lives of those affected by vision impairment.
The Fred Hollows Foundation’s virtual initiative encourages people of all fitness levels to dart, dash, walk or jog to raise funds to end avoidable blindness.
Tillie, who works at Specsavers in East Maitland, first learned about Fred’s Big Run through a co-worker and an ad she saw on Facebook.
However, a significant source of her motivation comes from her older cousins, both of whom have vision impairments.
Seeing what they face daily drove Tillie to assist the cause, too.
“Supporting my cousins, who need help in many ways, keeps me going,” she said.
“So, participating in this event is my way of making a difference for them and others like them.”
Setting a fundraising target of $500, as well as a distance of 100km, Tillie finds both goals challenging yet achievable.
“Thankfully, I’ve already received great support from my family, especially my father, who often goes on runs,” she said.
“But, working at Specsavers has opened my eyes to the broader impact the company has on the community, including providing access to surgery and conducting diabetic eye checks.”
Her employer’s partnership with The Fred Hollows Foundation aligns perfectly with their mission to make quality eye care accessible to all.
Since 2011, Specsavers has donated more than $8 million towards organisation’s crusade.
Tillie’s participation in Fred’s Big Run, however, is more than a personal test.
It’s a way to support a cause she deeply believes in.
And, her message to anyone thinking about joining Fred’s Big Run is clear.
“Just go for it and challenge yourself,” she said.
“Even if you can only walk it, you’ll be surprised at how much distance you can cover in a month, all while making a meaningful difference.”
Now in its fifth year, Fred’s Big Run has seen 30,500 participants raise more than $6.7 million for the foundation and amass a collective distance of 1,895,000km.
At the end, the money will support the Fred Hollows Foundation’s campaign to restore sight and prevent avoidable blindness worldwide.
In 2023, the charity celebrated its 30th anniversary and continues to work in over 25 countries, providing critical eye care and training local health professionals.
“Community ambassadors and participants like Tillie are the backbone of our work,” brand and communications director Alison Hill said.
“Their dedication and fundraising efforts enable us to continue restoring sight and changing lives around the world.”
Visit fredsbigrun.org to sign up.
Entry is free and you can register for yourself or as part of a team.
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