Bravehearts 777 marathon
My name is David, I am 34 years old and live in Brisbane. I grew up in the most loving family in a small country town in Germany. More than 20 years ago, I was sexually harassed by a man who was supposed to be my mentor. When I told my friends about it, they shared that they also were harassed by the same man. We all laughed about it and thought it was normal because it happened to all of us.
One year later at a warm summer night, I told my mum what happened. The next morning, my dad reported the man to the police. My parents asked me if I wanted to make a statement at the police. I do not remember saying it but my mum told me the other day that I wanted to make a statement because I didn’t want any other children to experience what I and my teammates went through. Even though I made a statement, the man was never convicted, leaving me with the feeling that he did not do anything wrong.
Today, after many therapy sessions, I am starting to understand how this childhood experience impacted my life. I am very fortunate and grateful for being supported by my partner, my family and friends throughout my healing journey. I am the perfect example that child sexual abuse/harassment is a problem that knows no physical, financial, socioeconomic, geographic, cultural or gender boundaries.
I will run the Bravehearts' 777 Marathons to speak up about child sexual abuse for those that can’t and raise funds for Bravehearts’ essential personal safety programs for young children, and counselling services for children and families affected by child sexual abuse.
What is the Bravehearts' 777 Marathon?
I will run 7 marathons (42km) in 7 states in 7 consecutive days, starting in Perth on 30 June 2025 and finishing on the Gold Coast on 6 July 2025.
Please donate to help me reach my fundraising goal of $11,000, every dollar makes a difference.
Please contact me for jersey and other sponsorship opportunities or if you have any questions at fechner.david@gmail.com
