WANDONG resident Travis McCarty will again embark on a 24 hour 100-kilometre walk to raise money for the Woronka family in December.
The family – parents Rebekah and Nick and three boys Riley, Cooper and Logan – have been fighting Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, DMD, since all three boys were diagnosed with the disease.
DMD primarily affects boys and causes muscle weakness, which only increases over time, with muscle loss beginning and worsening quickly. Trouble standing up occurs rapidly, meaning extra support to walk is needed.
Mr McCarty said he was motivated after learning about the family while watching a news report in 2020.
“When I watched the news report and witnessed Rebekah talk about the boys and their situation, my heart was crushed for them,” he said.
“I am a father of four beautiful daughters. As a parent, you feel helpless at times when your children are sick or unwell, this is every parent’s worst nightmare.”
Four months after learning about the family, Mr McCarty created the charity ‘Walk for Woronka Boys’ and held the first walking event in Melbourne’s CBD, raising $13,000.
This year’s walk will be held on December 4 and 5, beginning in Tallarook and following the Great Victorian Rail Trail throughout central Victoria.
Mr McCarty said he was proud to be involved with the family.
“Twelve months on, I am so proud to know the Woronka family. Proud parents Rebekah and Nick and of course their beautiful boys, Riley Cooper and Logan,” he said.
“As the family continue to live this nightmare, I will continue to love, care and offer my everlasting support.”
Mr McCarty thanked everyone for their ongoing support and donations towards the cause.
