Running a few times a week is an important ritual for Danielle. It’s a spiritual time and a time of
connection with her daughter Monique, who tragically lost her battle to Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine
Glioma (DIPG) an aggressive form of children’s brain cancer, in 2016.
Life changed for Danielle and her family in 2015 when Moni’s illness struck. At only 3 years old
Monique had been experiencing headaches, vomiting and dizziness and was rushed to
Melbourne. Moni underwent radiation treatments which gave the family 13 months to spend with
their precious daughter and sister.
Running has been a part of Danielle’s life since her late 20’s, when she ran in her lunch break
with colleagues.
First she learnt to run 5 kms, and then 10 kms. When her children came along running was
something she enjoyed intermittently.
However, since the loss of her daughter running has given Danielle a purpose and it helps her
deal with her grief, “running is very much like grief, some days are easier than others”.
Not long after Moni passed away Danielle decided to participate in the 15km, ‘Run 4 the Kids’ to
help raise money for the charity “The Cure Starts Now Australia”, DIPG research. Over the past
three years she has raised more than $35,000.
A focus on fundraising and participating in fun runs is something that involves the whole family
and their friends. Darryl and their children, Olivia and Zoe (Monique’s twin) walk while Danielle
runs!
Danielle recently completed her first half marathon as part of the 2019 Johnno’s Run team at
Run Melbourne. This time she was raising funds to support Community Living & Respite
Services Inc., a disability organisation, as Danielle has first hand experience of being a carer.
With a half marathon now ticked off, the next dream is a full marathon, and maybe an
international destination could be on the list.
Fundraising to find a cure gives Danielle extra motivation to run. She is currently planning a
Running Streak event and hopes that this will encourage people to get active, and maybe even
ignite a love of running. The Running Streak will involve a small donation and a commitment to
run or walk at least 1 km every day of the month of September.
Running has been healing for Danielle and she hopes sharing her story will encourage others
experiencing loss to try it for themselves.
