On Saturday 1 May, Cancer Council WA fundraiser, Alexander Correia, courageously and successfully completed a half marathon in the sub-Antarctic in honour of his late mother who died of lung and bone cancer.
Based on Macquarie Island (half-way between Australia and Antarctica) 29-year-old Mr Correia, who is part of the Australian Antarctic Division, battled freezing daytime temperatures and 50kmph winds, while navigating rough terrain (and a colony of elephant seals!) to raise money to help those affected by cancer.
Supported by 16 of his workmates and joined by the research station doctor and research station manager, Mr Correia achieved his goal, which included running more than 10 laps of the island's isthmus, in just under two hours.
"The event went off without a hitch. It rained and we were covered in mud but accomplished the feat in a time of 1:59:59," Mr Correia said.
Mr Correia said his mother's dying wish was that he travel the world and live life to the full - something he is certainly doing.
So far, Mr Correia has raised over $5200 to help those affected by cancer.
Thank you so much, Alexander, for your amazing generosity!
If you would like to hold a fundraising event to help support Cancer Council WA here are some great ideas to get started.
