The annual A-T Wheelathon marks a special occasion for founder and Williamstown local, Luke Ogden.
Luke,(37) , who was who was born with a rare condition called Ataxia-telangiectasia (AT), created the event in 2022 to shine a light of support on the disease.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant said the event, which raises awareness and funds for the Brash A-T Foundation, would be even bigger than the first.
“For this year’s event, there’s a different kind of circuit and it’s going to be huge,” he said.
“It’s open to everybody. On the Wheelathon page, people can register to enter and get sponsored, sponsor someone else or donate.”
The event will run on Saturday, October 14, where ‘wheelies’, walkers and supporters will head off from the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria along a 5 km course.
“It’s going to give people a chance to see the world how a wheelchair user sees it,” he said.
“Hopefully, they’ll get a better understanding of the challenges we face every day, like accessibility.”
AT is a rare, neurodegenerative, autosomal recessive disease which causes severe disability.
While AT heavily impacts his mobility and speech, NDIS funding for home modifications, assistive technology, equipment and supports, ensures he’s enjoying a full life.
Luke is one of only 50 confirmed cases in Australia.
All money raised will go towards funding research into a cure for AT, supporting Australian families affected by it, and supporting clinical and medical trials. Luke has already raised over $16,258.
White long-sleeve, or purple t-shirts will be available for purchase on the day, and a sausage sizzle will be available through the Rotary.
Details to donate: Donate (brashat.org.au)
