Steve, Alex's father, is lacing up his running shoes to raise funds and awareness for Camp Purple. Read about their journey and how Steve's turning his passion for running into something positive.

Two years ago, our world was turned upside down when our son, Alex, received a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis. Little did we know, he had been battling with this illness for several years, but it had gone undiagnosed. His health had deteriorated to the point he needed to be hospitalised for the next 6-8 months.

Fast forward two years and we can happily say his health now is stable and he is starting to get back to enjoying his life again.

Myself, I took up running a few years ago and during this period found running became my way of staying positive, clearing the mind each day and an escape from the hospital for a short period of time.

Not long ago, a post about Camp Purple on the CCNZ website caught my eye. After reading and watching a video about it, it gave me an idea. I realised that I could use my passion for running to raise funds for Camp Purple.

I have always enjoyed participating in running events. The idea of contributing to a cause that is personal and meaningful to us resonated deeply.

It’s been a quite a pleasure to be able to do something in a small way. We have experienced firsthand how horrible this disease can be, but we have also learnt that with the right support and tools in place there is no reason why you can’t live a normal, healthy, happy life. Camp Purple kind of enforced that to me in so many ways. 

Steve successfully completed the Kerikeri half marathon on 18 November 2023, and raised a total of $773 for Camp Purple. We are very grateful for his contribution to Camp Purple 2024.