Million Dollar Run comes to Ararat

Andrew Biszczak – along his wife Sonia, daughter Tiffany and dog Jess – rolled into town as part of the Million Dollar Run campaign.

Mr Biszczak is in the process of completing a 3000-kilometre solo charity run from Adelaide to Brisbane in the hope of raising a minimum of $1 million for DEBRA Australia, an organisation that cares for people suffering from the rare skin disease Epidermolysis Bullosa.

There is no cure for the disease which affects about 1000 Australians, who are known as the butterfly children.

“The awareness of this disease is very low and we knew it was going to take something big to bring it to people’s attention,” Mr Biszczak said.

“We sold our home and our business to do The Million Dollar Run, but if this campaign is successful it will be absolutely worth it.

“The butterfly children are so inspirational, the way they remain so positive through this incredibly painful and confronting disease.”

Mr Biszczak’s inspiring journey incorporates approximately five marathons per week for about four months.

Ararat was the location for a much needed rest day for Mr Biszczak and his family over the weekend, however he still found time to spread the message of his campaign by participating in Ararat Parkrun and the Ararat Mother’s Day Classic.

Cr Hooper said it was a privilege to meet and cheer on Mr Biszczak as he crossed into the Ararat Rural City.

“Andrew and his wonderful family are doing a great thing to help raise awareness for Epidermolysis Bullosa,” he said.

“It is a big challenge that he is undertaking, but after meeting him and his family and seeing the determination, there is no doubt he will be up for the challenge.

“I really do urge members of the community to get behind this worthy cause.”

To donate to Mr Biszczak’s campaign, visit www.themilliondollarrun.com.au or search ‘The Million Dollar Run’ on Facebook.

A collection tin and information flyers are also located at the Ararat Newsagency in Barkly Street.