When Lucas’s dad was diagnosed with severe heart failure, he decided to take on a challenge, and raise funds towards the fight to save Aussies hearts. As a result, Lucas completed the Astana Marathon in Kazakhstan.  

 
“I have never been a runner, I saw this as the perfect opportunity to challenge myself and raise funds for the Heart Foundation. It was physically and mentally the toughest thing that I have ever done, but knowing that there was a bigger purpose as to why I was doing it made it easy. ” 

- Lucas Chesterton, Challenge Fundraiser 

Instead of birthday gifts from friends and family, Allana Bettess asked for their help to fight heart disease and save lives. Allana lost her husband Len to a heart attack in 2018: he was just 51. 

Allana set up an online fundraiser and was thrilled to raise more than $2000 to support cardiac research and heart health promotion. “It was wonderful that people could donate in memory of Len,” she says. 

- Allana Bettess, Celebrate Fundraiser

When Asha awoke from appendix surgery, she was shocked to be told she had a serious cardiac condition: so serious that her heart had stopped beating in recovery. Just 17, a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy was confronting.  

That’s why she’s helping the Heart Foundation. “I’m planning some fun, low-key social and online fundraising events, to connect people and talk about what the Heart Foundation does. It’s a cause close to my heart.” 

- Asha Grigg, Host Fundraiser

At the age of 9 Megan lost her father to a heart attack.  That is why Megan chose to support the Heart Foundation and gave up alcohol for the month.   

By fundraising for the Heart Foundation, Megan is hoping she can stop what happened to her family happening to another. Megan’s top tip “Make sure you share your fundraising page on social media and tell all your family and friends and work colleagues what you are doing and why” 

Megan Cromer, Quit Fundraiser 

Losing three members of the Fremantle Pirates Golf Club to heart disease meant that when Norman Marshall and his clubmates planned a charity day back in 2016, the Heart Foundation was the logical partner. 

Since then, they’ve raised thousands of dollars to help fight heart disease. “In 2019 we had over 40 players. We invite guests, there’s food and drink, raffles and auctions; it’s a great day,” Norman says. 

- Fremantle Pirates, Host Fundraiser 

Gemma and the team at F45 for Kardinya completed 500 burpees within an hour to honour family members affected by heart disease. Gemma almost lost her step dad to heart disease and wanted to do something to give back. The 500 Burpee challenge was created. 

“I was surprised at how easy it was, I originally set a fundraising target of $1,000 but once I started sharing the fundraising page it kept growing. Each time my goal was achieved I would increase it again” 

Gemma and F45 Kardinya Team, DIY Fundraiser