By Sami Cooke
Whitebridge man, Ray O’Donoghue is aiming to raise $7000 for John Hunter Hospital's Intensive Care Unit, by cycling 700km around Newcastle by his 70th birthday.
Starting his "Triple 7 Challenge" on the 27th April, Mr O'Donoghue is currently over halfway through his journey, clocking 466 kilometres, expecting to finish on his 70th birthday, this Sunday the 17th May.
He says the inspiration for the event came from the recent fundraising achievements of 100-year-old war veteran, Captain Tom Moore in the UK.
"In the weeks leading up his birthday, he walked around his 25 metre garden 100 times before his birthday, raising over $30 million pounds, that kind of dedication really inspired me," Mr O'Donoghue said.
Having healthcare workers in his own family, both in Australia and overseas, he has seen the struggle the workers have endured from not having sufficient resources to work with an unprecedented virus.
He also says he has two family members alive today due to the incredible work done in ICUs, his niece suffering severe burns to 60 percent of her body and his son enduring a catastrophic heat stroke injury; both now fully recovered due to the significant efforts made by the ICU workers.
"If you happen to see me riding around and recognize me give me a wave, I live near the Fernleigh track so that's my primary route. I also ride over to Glendale, around Warners Bay, Valentine and Belmont," Mr O'Donoghue said.
"Otherwise head to the "Everyday Hero" page and donate where my current tallies and donation link are."
Currently, Ray has clocked up 466 kilometres, and raised $641, and is hopeful to reach his target by this Sunday.
Funds can be donated through the "Every Day Hero" website by searching "intensive" or "intensive care".
