Ocean Grove dad does it ‘Just Like Jack’

AN OCEAN Grove father-of-three has endured 273km of challenging running conditions in a mission to support old high school mate Chris Duffy and his son, Jack.

Bellarine-based Steve Lee, alongside Glenn Sneddon, another former high school peer, undertook a 273km trek along the Great Victorian Rail Trail over the course of six days to promote the ‘Just Like Jack’ initiative.

The Just Like Jack organisation aims to enable children with disabilities and their families to experience adventures and get the most out of life.

Jack Duffy, who is now 15 years old, has Cerebral Palsy Spastic Quadriplegia, and is pushed by his father in a specially made running chair.

Jack is non-verbal but speaks volumes with his infectious smile and fun personality, according to Mr Lee.

“Jack can’t walk, talk or eat on his own, but understands everything you say and is the happiest young man you will meet,” Mr Lee said.

“He loves to watch cricket and adores his siblings Xavier and Jamie.”

Mr Lee and Mr Sneddon were originally going to run alongside Mr Duffy and Jack in Tasmania from Georgetown in Tasmania’s north, to Hobart and then complete the Point to Pinnacle run up Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, the world’s toughest half marathon.

However, travel restrictions would not allow that to happen.

Instead, the two mates ran from the northern Victorian town of Tallarook to Mansfield, which then shoots off to Alexandra.

The pair mirrored the original run on back-to-back routes of the trail which equated to 273km in total, a feat Mr Lee is supremely proud of for the message it sends to kids like Jack.

“The trail was great to run on, with beautiful scenery, and a few snakes, but proved to be very undulating and was a massive challenge for us, physically, mentally and emotionally,” Mr Lee said.

“The ‘Just like Jack’ organisation and this experience has been a privilege to be involved in.

“On a personal level it has opened my eyes to issues of disability, inclusion and barriers facing many families.

“This run hasn’t been about me – it is about being part of something bigger.”

Mr Lee also noted the help his community back at home provided in the lead-up to the run, including the experience and knowledge provided by Mark Laidler (Ocean Grove and Leopold Osteopathy and Sports Health), Brad Bullock (Inmotion Health and Coaching), Sally Hanks (Bodywise Nutrition) and Lauren Hanna (Onfield Physio).

“I was also blown away by people’s kindness and connection to this amazing cause,” Mr Lee added.

“Messages of support and encouragement, as well as financial donations, really boosted me on tough running days.”

Mr Lee also noted the tremendous support he received from his wife Rachel, his daughter Poppy and his two boys Henry and Jack, especially on the more difficult days.

To find out more about Just Like Jack head to www.justlikejack.com.au.