Going the distance for Dad

Sarah, John and Amy Turnbull

Sunshine Coast residents and sisters, Amy and Sarah Turnbull, took a 30-day challenge during the Hike for Hospice to celebrate the life of their father who has been diagnosed with ALS. Their goal was to raise $15,000 for charity, and go on a 5km run, walk or hike every day for the month of June.

Sarah and Amy’s father, John Turnbull, was diagnosed with ALS, a motor neuron disease that causes the nerves within the brain to slowly break down. The disease has progressed quickly and he has lost his ability to walk and stand.

“It’s beautiful to watch my daughters run this campaign for their father,” said their mother, Lynn Chapman. “They are using their mobility for a good cause. He can’t move so they are using their mobility for him.”

Arising from a feeling of powerlessness in watching their dad go through the daily struggles of the disease, Amy and Sarah started the challenge to celebrate and honour his life and everything that he has taught them about kindness, selflessness, caring for others and gentleness. Their campaign also took place during ALS Awareness Month, and led up to the launch of the Sunshine Coast Hospice’s Hike for Hospice.

In a note to the community, Amy and Sarah said they were “incredibly grateful and touched by the overwhelming kindness, generosity and support” they’ve received so far, breaking their fundraising record and raising nearly $15,000 for three great charities.

“We feel very lucky to be part of an amazing community who supports each other, and we can’t thank everyone enough because we understand how difficult the last year has been for so many people due to the pandemic,” the sisters said. “Your love has continued to motivate us through this challenge and has lifted all our spirits during a very challenging time.”

All funds raised from their fundraising challenge will support Sunshine Coast Hospice Society, ALS Society of BC, and Dying With Dignity Canada.