Going the (Long) Distance

Adam James set himself a huge challenge this year. To run 99km in just one day to raise funds for Dolly’s Dream.

When he decided he wanted to take on something that pushed him well outside of his comfort zone, he knew he wanted it to be for a cause that genuinely meant something to him.

As a dad of two, Dolly’s Dream immediately resonated with him.

“Like so many parents, I want my kids to grow up in a world where kindness is valued and bullying isn’t something children have to fear every day,” Adam told us.

“My wife and I remember hearing Dolly’s story on TV and thinking about how no family should ever have to experience that kind of heartbreak.”

Adam worked with a coach in the lead-up to the run to condition his body and prepare for the physical demands of the challenge.

But at 50km, things took an unexpected turn.

“I could not keep anything down, so had to complete the run battling with this,” he said.

With another 49 kilometres ahead of him, every step became harder.

“Physically it was brutal, but mentally it was probably the toughest challenge I’ve ever faced.”

When the temptation to stop became strongest, Adam returned to the reason he had started.

“Whenever I hit those low points, I reminded myself why I was out there. I thought about Dolly, about kids facing bullying every single day, and about the incredible support from my family, friends, workmates and everyone who donated.”

His family were also never far from his mind.

“Knowing my wife and our two kids were cheering me on gave me another reason to keep putting one foot in front of the other.”

After 99 kilometres, Adam had crossed the finish line. But for him, the achievement belonged to far more people than just himself.

“In the end, it was never just my run; it belonged to everyone who supported the cause.”

Adam’s challenge might have been extraordinary, but his message to anyone thinking about fundraising for Dolly’s Dream is simple: you don’t have to do something huge to make a difference.

“Every fundraiser, every donation and every conversation helps,” he said.

Adam started with one idea and hoped people would get behind it. He never expected the incredible level of support that followed. He raised over $30,000 that will go directly to our vital bullying support services, including our Bullying Support Line 13 DOLLY (13 36 55).

Whether it’s $100 or $10,000, every contribution helps Dolly’s Dream continue its work to prevent bullying and support young people and families when they need it.

And most importantly, every fundraiser helps keep the conversation going, reminding children and young people that kindness matters, that they deserve to feel safe and supported, and that they never have to face bullying alone.

“If you’ve been thinking about doing something, just start. You might be surprised how many people want to stand beside you.”

Adam went the long distance for Dolly’s Dream.

What could you do? Visit ways to get involved.