Flinders MP Greg Hunt is walking for a cure. Pictured from left are Greg Hunt, Ashlee, Lachie, Sheriden and Jemma.
By Melissa Grant
FLINDERS MP Greg Hunt hit the streets of Pearcedale and Devon Meadows recently as part of a 500km quest to find a cure for juvenile diabetes.
Mr Hunt is completing a 19-day trek around the Flinders electorate to raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
The Federal MP raised $65,000 for diabetes research during his first walk in 2004 and is hoping to raise another $50,000.
Mr Hunt said two young diabetes sufferers living in his electorate, 11-year-old Chloe and 9-year-old Justin, had inspired him to take up the challenge.
“Like so many other child sufferers, Chloe and Justin show incredible courage, strength and resilience in dealing with the day-to-day effects of this disease,” he said.
“The whole purpose of it is to raise funds and raise awareness.”
Mr Hunt said he hoped that a cure for the disease that affects 140,000 was a possibility in the near future.
“Trials of a new diabetes vaccine have just begun in Australia. My hope is that child sufferers in the future will not have to endure the pain and hardship that Chloe and Justin have endured,” he said.
Although Mr Hunt is averaging 27km a day it hasn’t stopped him from completing his parliamentary duties. He says he has been engaging in walking to business meetings and also completes paperwork most nights after the gruelling walk.
Anywhere from three to 30 people, including many primary school students, have been accompanying Mr Hunt at each stage of the epic journey.
He said the walk did more than raise money and awareness about juvenile diabetes.
“It has the dual purpose of not only engaging schools and the community on the issue of diabetes, but also raising other community issues. I’ve even had a man come up to me to talk about climate change,” he said.
Those wanting to help Mr Hunt reach the $50,000 target can call 5979 3188 to make a donation.
