By Danielle Kutchel
A Pakenham family is urging others to join them on a cycling challenge to raise funds to fight childhood cancer.
The Meshram family – Aanchal, Mayur and their children Mayush and Aura – are currently training for the Great Cycle Challenge, which runs throughout October.
Little Aura is pedalling hard to make sure she can complete the challenge without her training wheels, and Mayush is excited to ride as far as he can as part of the fundraiser.
The family has set themselves a goal of riding 1000km over October – and they’re welcoming others to join their team and help them meet that goal.
Aanchal – a founding member of the Indian Australian Community Cooperative which operates across Casey and Cardinia – said she previously completed the ride in 2020, when she wanted to do something to activate the community and aid mental wellbeing.
Together with her husband and a team of around 10 other people, they raised around $3000 for childhood cancer.
This year, when she registered again, six-year-old Aura and eight-year-old Mayush begged to be involved too.
Aanchal said the funds raised this year would go to an excellent cause.
“Although I haven’t had any personal experience, there are so many horrifying stories in the community [of childhood cancer],” she said.
“It’s touching to see how small initiatives can impact the community.”
She added that being physically active helps mental wellbeing – a priority during lockdown.
The ride is giving them something to look forward to, and training is getting those endorphins flowing.
They’re aiming to raise $1000 for the cause this year.
With the weather starting to warm up, the family is taking every opportunity they can to get out on their bikes and explore the local paths.
Aancahl said the fundraiser is particularly important to her kids.
“They’re proud of what they’re doing and the contribution and difference they’re making in the community.
“This fundraiser educates kids as well – life is about much more than doing big things, small initiatives can make a big difference.”
To join the team or donate to the ride, visit https://greatcyclechallenge.com.au/Teams/TheLocalBikers
