This August, I'll be taking on the Jeans for Genes Skipping Challenge, aiming to complete 100 skips a day.
I've recently discovered a love for skipping. What started as a fun way to stay active has become something I genuinely enjoy, so when I saw the opportunity to put it towards a meaningful cause, signing up was an easy decision.
I'm skipping for the 1 in 20 Australian children affected by a birth defect or genetic condition. Research funded through Jeans for Genes helps provide answers, treatments and hope for families facing some incredibly tough challenges.
One story that really resonated with me was Harrison's. After suddenly becoming unwell, he was diagnosed with a rare form of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Thanks to years of medical research and advances in genetic testing, doctors were able to identify the right diagnosis and treatment. That research helped save his life.
It's a powerful reminder that the research we're supporting today could help save the life of someone tomorrow.
I'll be sharing a few updates on my skipping journey throughout August, but the real goal is helping raise awareness for this important cause.
If you'd like to support the Children's Medical Research Institute, even a small donation can make a difference !
Latest updates
💙 Halfway There and Feeling Grateful 💙
We're almost halfway through August, and I'm so excited (and honestly a little blown away!) to share that we've already surpassed my fundraising goal.
My original target was $500, and thanks to the generosity of so many amazing people, we've already raised $518 for Children's Medical Research Institute.
To everyone who has donated, shared my page, or offered words of encouragement, thank you. Your support means more than you know. 💙
As I've been learning more about the work being done by Children's Medical Research Institute, one thing has really stood out to me. They're not just researching today's challenges, they're working towards tomorrow's breakthroughs.
For 65 years, they've been improving the lives of children through medical research, helping achieve discoveries that have changed countless lives. Today, they're building the world's largest cancer proteome database, advancing gene therapies, and driving research into genetic diseases and birth defects that could one day lead to faster diagnoses, better treatments and new cures.
It also reminds me that we never truly know what someone else's story looks like.
The person sitting beside you at work, serving your coffee, walking through the grocery store, or passing you in the street may be carrying challenges we'll never see. They may be supporting a child with a genetic condition. They may have spent years searching for answers. They may have been one of those children themselves.
People are often carrying far more than we realise, and they're usually much stronger than they appear.
That's one of the reasons this cause resonates with me. It's about research and hope, but it's also about people.
So, as I continue my skipping challenge, my biggest takeaway so far is this: lead with kindness. Show care. Offer patience. Be the person you'd want to meet on a difficult day.
Thank you for helping me support this incredible cause. We've reached the goal, but the journey isn't over yet. Every donation helps create hope for children and families who need it most. 💙
Indi 👟💙👖🧬
Raised so far
With your help, I have raised...
$579
You’re helping fund research to find cures for kids with genetic diseases. Every dollar counts!
Biggest Donor
Leigh Southgate
$253
Thank you so much to my biggest supporter, Leigh Southgate, for donating an incredible $253 to help fund vital research into curing children’s genetic diseases.
My Impact
So far this year, I've helped fund...
11
Hours of research
Every $50 raised funds an hour of vital research.
Thank you to our donors
$61
Kristin Huston
So proud of you-you are awesome!
$253
Leigh Southgate
Very proud of you.
$35
Matched Gift
Your donation has been doubled by our sponsors!
$35
Anonymous
$40
Matched Gift
Your donation has been doubled by our sponsors!
$40
Chelsea Owen
Well done Indy!
$40
Matched Gift
Your donation has been doubled by our sponsors!
$40
Angela Williams
Love your spirit and consideration for others! Appreciate you!
$35
"So proud of you-you are awesome!"