Pedalling with purpose: locals gear up to cycle across NNSW
- intouch Magazine
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
This week, Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW 21st annual Ride for Sick Kids (RFSK) fundraiser kicks off the 500 kilometre journey to support local families with seriously ill or injured children.
From Tuesday 26 to Saturday 30 August, up to 20 cyclists will turn miles into smiles as they cycle from Grafton to Newcastle with the aim of raising 1,562 nights of accommodation at Ronald McDonald House (equivalent to $250,000).
Every dollar raised helps keep the wheels turning at RMHC Northern NSW, helping the charity continue to support seriously ill and injured children and their families including Ayla’s family. Their world was turned upside down since Ayla was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma when she was only one year old.
For over a year Ayla and her family have called Ronald McDonald House their home away from home, relocating from Coffs Harbour to stay together while Ayla received lifesaving medical treatments at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital.
Ayla’s mum, Beatrice said, “Since Ayla’s diagnosis, we’ve had a place to stay only minutes away from the hospital that is full of warmth and comfort. As the doctors worked to save Ayla’s life the House has been our family home for many, many months.
“We have no family here in Australia so being surrounded by the caring community at the House is an invaluable support system. It has been our home during many milestones together, such as Ayla’s second birthday and her sister, Anne-Georga’s, fourth birthday.”
Now in its 21st year, Ride for Sick Kids is a vital fundraiser that keep families like Ayla’s togeher so they can focus on what’ s important – their sick child.
Ross Bingham, CEO for RMHC Northern NSW and 2025 rider said, “Helping keep families together and close to the vital care their child needs is at the heart of what we do. Ronald McDonald House is a home where families can find comfort and support from a community, so no one has to face their child’s illness alone.
“As an independent charity we’re incredibly grateful for the continuous support from locals for Ride for Sick Kids, that helps us keep our doors open to families when they need us the most. While it’s a tough ride, the impact is far greater.”
The annual Ride for Sick Kids Northern NSW raises on average 1,562 nights of accommodation for families of ill or injured children, every year.
The local Northern NSW community can support families with sick kids at www.rideforsickkids.org.au by:
Donating to a rider.
Jumping in the saddle and joining the Community Ride: individuals, schools, gyms, sporting groups and local businesses can also ride and fundraise.
