Walking for brain cancer

Mark Alexander and his wife, Tessa. (Supplied)

Elsie Lange

It’s not everyday you hear your local chemist goes on a trek for charity, but Ryan Alexander is about to give you a walk for your money.

The manager of two UFS pharmacies in Gisborne will embark on a 150km trek over three days to raise money and awareness for brain cancer research, through the Mark Hughes Foundation.

It was Mr Alexander’s brother who started the concept of the fundraising walk, called the Big Three, raising money for various charities and causes for the third year running.

“I am a little bit excited, I probably am a little bit underprepared, in terms of that I haven’t been able to do a big walk yet… there’s not really too much you can do, besides being able to walk a fairly long distance,” he said.

The Mark Hughes Foundation is a health promotion charity started by the National Rugby League champion after he was diagnosed with brain cancer.

The merry band of strollers will make their way on foot from Sydney to Newcastle starting on June 29, arriving at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium in time to see the round 16 National Rugby League game between the Knights and the Gold Coast Titans on July 1.

Mr Alexander said it was seeing how much support his brother received from the initiative that made him want to be a part of making a contribution.

“I thought this year, I would be able to play my part, because we have a really good community in the Macedon Ranges,” he said.

“We’re very lucky… to have a good amount of people who will be able to donate money to a very good cause.”

To donate: challenge.markhughesfoundation.com.au/page/RyanAlexander-91379388.