I'm Walking a Marathon This May — One Step at a Time for the Heart Foundation

This May, I’m challenging myself to walk a full marathon (around 42km) — not in one go, but step by step, day by day — to raise funds for the Heart Foundation.

At around 140kgs, I’m not what you’d call "active." I live with a fair share of aches, pains, and the usual wear and tear life brings. But that’s exactly why I’m doing this.

Because this walk isn't just about distance — it's about heart.

Heart disease runs in my family. Blood pressure issues, heart problems, and the heartbreak that comes with them are all too familiar. My grandfather passed away from a heart attack in his mid-60s — while walking to work, trying to take steps toward better health.

His story, and the stories of countless other Kiwis who’ve battled heart disease, have inspired me to take on this personal challenge. It's not going to be easy — every step will test me — but that’s the point. Because for many, fighting heart disease is a marathon of its own.

We all know someone — a friend, a whānau member, a colleague — who’s been affected by heart health. This is a cause that hits close to home for so many New Zealanders.

So I'm walking for them. I'm walking for my grandfather. I'm walking for myself. And I’m walking to raise awareness and funds so that others might be able to avoid the pain that too many families have faced.

Your support means the world. Whether it's a few dollars, words of encouragement, or sharing this with others — it all helps. Every contribution goes toward life-saving research, education, and support for people living with heart disease across Aotearoa.

Help me put heart into every kilometre. Let's do this together.

Ngā mihi nui,

Ants!