Matt and Nerida Punter have left many a footprint on the boardwalk from their Moffat Beach home around to Golden Beach during their regular running sessions.
Inspired to help others after Mr Punter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 10 years ago, the Punters have used their shared passion for running to raise money for the Juniors Diabetes Research Foundation.
But they have decided to take it to the next level, setting themselves a target of running 5000 kilometres and raising $10,000 for Insulin for Life Global, a charity that connects surplus insulin and diabetes supplies with the 50 per cent of the worlds’ diabetes population who cannot afford or access it.
The Punters, who own The Savings Centre, kicked off the Injecting Hope Campaign in October last year and have already run 1200 kilometres and raised $3500 through sponsorships and donations.
Mr Punter says while his diagnosis has led to some lifestyle changes, including taking up running to improve his overall health and wellbeing, his daily blood sugar tests and insulin injections are made affordable, or completely free, with government subsidies.
“People living in developing nations just don’t have that support,” he says.
“We are blessed that we have everything here and it’s not a great import cost-wise, so we want to do what we can to help people whose lives become dependent on access to insulin. We know that every dollar we raise will go directly towards saving someone’s life.”
A $250 donation is enough to supply one of Insulin for Life’s outreach centres for an entire year.
“Trying to balance life, the business, running and the three kids keeps us on our toes,” Mr Punter says.
“Lucky for us, the Sunshine Coast has this amazing ‘locals supporting locals’ mentality and we’re really feeling the love.
“We have some fantastic sponsors involved in the campaign.”
Swimart Currimundi owner Janelle Brown says sponsoring the Punter’s campaign is a no-brainer. “We really admire what Matt and Nerida are doing,” she says.
To find out more visit The Savings Centre Facebook page, or mycause.com.au/page/163490/injecting-hope.
