This October, during ADHD Awareness Month, one local hero in the Lake Macquarie area is taking on an extraordinary challenge to raise awareness and support for Australia’s ADHD community. Emily Fellows, an ambassador for the ADHD Foundation Australia, is running 21 kilometers every day for 21 days—covering a total of 441 kilometers. Her initiative, called “21 for 21 – Move with Emily,” is not just a physical challenge but a powerful message of endurance, advocacy, and hope for individuals living with ADHD.
Emily’s Journey: A Personal Battle and a Community Cause
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Diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 15, Emily Fellows has firsthand experience of the difficulties faced by those living with ADHD. Now, at 28, she is using her journey to inspire others and raise vital funds for the ADHD Foundation Australia, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support, education, and resources to individuals and families affected by ADHD.
Emily’s 21-day running challenge began on September 29th and will conclude on October 19th, 2024. She has been running daily in and around Warners Bay, a picturesque suburb of Lake Macquarie, NSW. Throughout her journey, Emily has emphasized the importance of exercise in managing ADHD symptoms, such as improving focus, reducing hyperactivity, and boosting dopamine levels. As Emily explains, exercise has been life-changing for her: “Living with ADHD has been a unique journey, but exercise is my lifeline.”
The Challenge: 21km Every Day for 21 Days
Emily’s goal is to run 21 kilometers daily for 21 days, totaling 441 kilometers. This extraordinary feat is aimed at raising funds for the ADHD Foundation Australia, specifically to support their national helpline and provide resources for families and schools dealing with ADHD. The helpline has become a critical service for thousands of Australians seeking advice and assistance for ADHD-related challenges.
In her words, “Running 21 kilometers every day isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s about building a more inclusive and supportive future for those affected by ADHD. I want to raise awareness about the challenges we face and encourage the community to support the ADHD Foundation in their mission to provide essential resources to those in need.”
Why This Matters: The ADHD Crisis in Australia
ADHD is a condition that affects approximately 1 in 20 Australians, both children and adults. Untreated ADHD is estimated to cost Australia over $20 billion annually due to lost productivity and healthcare expenses. Despite its prevalence, the resources available for ADHD diagnosis and treatment remain limited. There is a shortage of ADHD-trained professionals, leading to long wait times for diagnosis and treatment, which puts added strain on individuals and families dealing with the condition.
Emily’s campaign comes at a crucial time, as the demand for ADHD support continues to outpace the available resources. The funds raised through her “21 for 21” challenge will help bridge that gap by providing critical financial support for the ADHD Foundation Australia’s helpline and educational programs. These resources are essential for families, schools, and individuals looking for guidance on how to manage ADHD.
The Impact of Exercise on ADHD
Scientific research has shown that regular physical activity can have a significant impact on managing ADHD symptoms. Exercise helps increase dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels in the brain—neurotransmitters that play a key role in regulating attention, mood, and behavior. For individuals with ADHD, these neurotransmitters are often deficient, leading to symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
Emily has experienced these benefits firsthand. “When I’m running, I feel completely free. My mind usually runs a mile a minute, but exercise really soothes me and allows me to think more clearly,” she said. “It’s been a personal journey, and I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved. At the same time, I feel sad that this challenge is coming to an end—it’s been a therapeutic experience.”
A Community Effort: Supporting the ADHD Foundation Australia
Emily’s challenge is not just about personal achievement; it’s about rallying community support for an important cause. The ADHD Foundation Australia relies entirely on donations and the efforts of volunteers to maintain their services. This includes their national helpline, which has been a lifeline for many families navigating the complexities of ADHD.
Christopher Ouizeman, Executive Director of the ADHD Foundation Australia, expressed his gratitude for Emily’s efforts: “Emily Fellows has committed a great deal of time and effort to making this initiative a reality. Her 21km in 21 days challenge is not just raising funds, but also raising awareness about the significant impact ADHD has on our community.”
Ouizeman also highlighted the vital role of donations in keeping the ADHD Foundation running. “Our helpline handles thousands of calls each year, offering support to individuals and families facing the challenges of ADHD. We receive no government funding, so it’s initiatives like Emily’s that help us continue our work.”
Raising Awareness and Building a Supportive Community
Emily’s challenge has sparked widespread attention across the Lake Macquarie area and beyond. Many local residents have been cheering her on, either by joining her for parts of her daily run or by donating to her cause. Her campaign has also garnered attention on social media, with many people sharing her story and supporting the ADHD Foundation’s mission.
Looking ahead, Emily hopes her efforts will inspire others to take action in support of those living with ADHD. She has already begun thinking about her next project to raise awareness. “This challenge is just the beginning,” Emily said. “I’m already thinking about how I can continue to raise awareness for ADHD in the future. There’s still so much work to be done.”
How You Can Support Emily Fellows and the ADHD Foundation
As Emily approaches the final stretch of her 441-kilometer journey, there’s still time to support her and the ADHD Foundation Australia. Donations can be made through the ADHD Foundation’s official website, and every contribution will go directly toward funding their national helpline and educational programs.
Whether you’re inspired by Emily’s determination or want to help make a difference in the lives of those affected by ADHD, your support can help ensure that the ADHD Foundation continues to provide essential resources to individuals and families across Australia.
For more information on Emily’s “21 for 21 – Move with Emily” challenge and to donate, visit the ADHD Foundation Australia’s website today.
