Coast mum walks 175km for Fred

A 54-year-old Central Coast mum walked an impressive 175km over the month of August as part of Fred’s Big Run, an annual event which raises funds for the Fred Hollows Foundation.

Lynne Robinson’s motivation was her son Moby’s successful treatment for bilateral cataracts.

She set out to raise $500 but exceeded expectations by raising more than $1,000 for the cause.

“(This was) my way of ‘paying back’ the help and care my baby boy Moby received when he was born with bilateral cataracts 15 years ago,” Robinson said.

“Moby’s sight was restored through the dedication of his ophthalmologist and medical team, and he continues to thrive as an active 15-year-old, playing soccer, surfing and enjoying life with his friends.’

It was Robinson’s first time participating in Fred’s Big Run and she completed the kilometres with her 10-year-old Cavoodle Barney by her side.

Despite the challenge of balancing long walks with her work schedule, she said she had enjoyed the experience, finding time to walk each day with the support and encouragement of her family, friends and walking buddies.

She has encouraged others to join next year’s challenge.

Now in its fifth year, Fred’s Big Run has seen 30,500 participants raise more than $6.7M for the Foundation and amass a collective distance of 1,895,000km– just over 47 laps around the globe.

Fred’s Big Run is not only about physical activity but also about making a positive impact.

Participants can track their progress, share their journey on social media and connect with a community of like-minded individuals.

The Fred Hollows Foundation is a not-for-profit non-government organisation founded by the renowned Australian eye surgeon Professor Fred Hollows, his wife Gabi and some of their closest friends around their dining room table in 1992. 

Since its humble beginnings, the Foundation has grown to become a leading development organisation working in more than 25 countries and restoring sight to more than three million people. 

It has one clear mission: to end avoidable blindness, both around the world and here in Australia. 

In total, 5,586 participants across Australia participated in Fred’s Big Run this year, raising $1.092M, which will restore sight to up to 43,694 people.

While the run is over, donations will be accepted throughout September at www.fredsbigrun.org