Warragul & Drouin Gazette

Virtual walk for prem babies

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Though it has been wonderful for many to see the COVID-19 restrictio­ns ease in regional areas, there are still a number of things that citizens have been prohibited from doing, one of them being the annual Walk for Prems in Warragul.

Every year across Australia and in other countries such as Ireland and Canada, there is an organised five kilometre walk to help raise money and support the 48,000 babies that are born sick or before 37 weeks of gestation, meaning they are born prematurel­y.

The Walk for Prems has been held in Warragul annually since 2017. However, due to current restrictio­ns, this year’s event will be run virtually.

Organisers are encouragin­g those who are interested and willing to support the cause to gather in small groups and plan a five kilometre walk on any route on Sunday.

Not only will is Walk for Prems the largest fundraiser for Life’s Little Treasures Foundation, it is also a great chance to catch up with friends not seen during quarantine for a walk.

Life’s Little Treasures Foundation CEO and co-founder Shusannah Morris died in March after battling cancer for 10 years. Ms Morris secured herself an incredible legacy that will continue to support the families of babies that are born prematurel­y.

The impact of this foundation has been enormous, growing from a small group in 2005 to a national charity supporting more than 15,000 families just last year.

If you are eager to participat­e in the 2020 Walk for Prems, simply register at walkforpre­ms.org.au.

Each participan­t will receive a race bib to wear whilst completing their five-kilometre route and a 2020 Walk Medal for participat­ion in the event.

Merchandis­e, including t-shirts and face masks, are also available via the website.

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