Login
Login

Juani O'Reilly

Heartbreak to Hope Walk 2025

My Activity Tracking

165
kms

My target 150 kms

Support my challenge for kids facing cancer.

Every month in Australia, 90 children are diagnosed with cancer. 

For those families, their lives are changed forever. Cancer puts families under enormous pressure. It can feel like it’s impossible to hold it together.

This May, I am taking part in the Heartbreak to Hope Walk to raise funds for Redkite to provide emotional, financial and practical support and care to families facing childhood cancer.

Please sponsor me by making a donation to support my walk. 

Together, we can show these children and their families that they don't have to face cancer alone and support them as they face the toughest time of their lives.

Thank you.

Support my walk to help kids facing cancer

Raised

$15,335

My Goal

$15,000

Select amount to donate

$53
$106
$152
$304
$
Donate

My Achievements

My personal pledge to help kids facing cancer

Uploaded my profile picture to my page

Shared my page on Facebook

Raised $53 to provide a group support session for a family

Raised $152 to provide a counselling session for 1 child facing cancer

Raised $304 to provide counselling sessions for 2 children facing cancer

Raised $530 to provide group support sessions for 10 families

Raised $810 to keep the lights on and put food on the table

Raised $1000 to earn a place in the Hall of Fame

Logged my first kilometres

Achieved 25% of my KM goal

Achieved 50% of my KM goal

Reached my KM goal

My Updates

1 June - Extra, extra, read all about it. That’s a wrap for 2025

Sunday 1st Jun
Hello family and friends,

Thank you so much for your messages of support and kindness. Well, well, well, we nearly got there, very close to our goal. Some of you made me cry yesterday with your very generous donations (that’s no part of my fund raising gig).

I got a lovely message from one donor yesterday that I must share. “ You are a legend Juani ( I’m not, you wonderful people are). My niece and her daughter think so too. RedKite have been amazing helping them through their battle”. How wonderful is that. Because of you, a family facing childhood cancer will be able to get through their darkest day. I don’t know what to say, I’m a bit overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity to our RedKite bucket. Thank you, thank you, thank you, you have all made me very happy knowing RedKite can continue with their vital work.

And now I would like to express my thanks to those who yesterday,  donated to my Heartbreak to Hope walk and to our RedKite bucket.  Big shout out today to Jo Innes, Raphael Dingli, Ian Houghton, Steve Uhe, Ann and Danny, Ruth Baussman, Mark Coppin, Karen Lucas, Donna Hofmeier, Teresa Mitchell, Pauline Woodley, Gillan Sward, Todd and Carmen Brown,  Leanne and Chris McKay, Ian Corey, Matt and Javi, Jackie Ellery, Denise Lord, Marta Espinoza, me ( for the third time) and Jan from my Spanish conversation class.

So how much do we have in our RedKite bucket?  Drum roll please ! We have raised $14,600 for RedKite, how wonderful is that. Awesome stuff thank you family and friends. And I’walked 165 km during the month of May (crazy woman). 

And more amazing news from Team Ella. Can you believe that Team Ella ( a small team of just four) walked 773 kms during the month of May. And we stole the bronze medal, yippee., thanks for helping us do that. And can you guess how much we have in our Team Ella RedKite bucket? Yes a small team of four have raised, drum roll please $20, 674. Big shout out to Rebecca, Linda and Libby for all your efforts.

You have melted my heart and made families facing childhood cancer smile. Woohoo, imagine what RedKite can achieve with what we have raised, you are changing lives. Thank you again for your support and generosity.

That’s a wrap for this year and I hope to see you all next year. If you would like to join the team, just sing out.

30 May - Im excited, we got more $s in our RedKite bucket today,

Friday 30th May
Hello family and friends,

Minus 4 this morning with frost but  it turned into an awesome day.

Well I am pleased to inform you that we got some more $s in our RedKite bucket. Woohoo.   And tomorrow I will announce how much we have in our Redkite bucket, but we still haven’t reach my $ goal but getting close, and we have one day left. Please help if you can. 

And now I would like to express my thanks to those who today, donated to my Heartbreak to Hope walk and to our RedKite bucket.  Big shout out today to Bongo Harrison and David Luke. Your generosity will change the lives of some families facing childhood cancer. Thank you so much.

I want to express my deepest thanks to each and everyone of you, for your support and encouragement during my Heartbreak to Hope walk. I’m lucky to have you all in my life and I couldn’t do it without you. I am truly grateful. 

Only one day to go. Some  of you said you would add $s to our Redkite bucket, but I haven’t received your donation yet.   Just click on the link 

Thank you

29 May - Just in case anyone meant to donate and forgot

Thursday 29th May
Hello family and friends,

Beautiful day in Canberra, no kms nor $s in our RedKite bucket today. Didn’t count my steps as I have exceed my km target. 

Still hoping to make our $s target, only two days left.

Just in case anyone meant to add $s to our RedKite bucket but forgot, just click on the link 

Thank you, thank you, thank you for helping families facing childhood cancer.

28 May - Hope is the courage to take one more step, to try one more time, to believe that things will get better

Wednesday 28th May
Hello family and friends,

Another day of no Kms walked. Fun this morning watching my sister’s tap dance class  performance, she had a fall during the performance as she wasn’t wearing her Tap shoes, she lost one.  and had to borrow shoes from  the teacher.  Some student kindly described her fall as very elegant. Ha, thank goodness no injuries , then choir this afternoon, which I love.

Today, I would like to express my thanks to Aleshia  and Martin, plus Bev Woods ( all the way from Perth, I am coming  to visit, hope we can catch up ) for your kind  donation to my Heartbreak to Hope walk and to our RedKite bucket.  

 And yesterday I got a lovely surprise from my old mate Kerry (in Adelaide)  it’s in the picture, love them. The card read “ Hi Juani, Congratulations on your efforts in getting to your target. Just a small gift to keep you warm while you have your feet up resting.

Big shout out to Shaz for sharing my fund raising page on her FB page.

Team Ella still 4th on the ladder which is displeasing. Can you boost Team Ella’s RedKite bucket, PLEASE. Only 3 days to go.

So please sponsor me now if you can, I would be most grateful as would the families you are supporting. Just click on the link below. Promise it is safe. Let’s bring smiles to kids in need., as Mali said.
https://www.heartbreaktohopewalk.org.au/fundraisers/juanioreilly
And yes my feet have those extremely warm socks on and am off to put my feet up

27 May - No act of kindness, no matter how small is every wasted ((Aesop)

Tuesday 27th May
Hello family and friends, 

So I decided to have a rest day and I am happy about that as the weather today in Canberra, just revolting, windy and freezing.

Today, I would like to express my thanks to Meg Smith for your kind  donation to my Heartbreak to Hope walk and to our RedKite bucket.  

I have awesome news from Team Ella. Firstly, Rebecca has amazingly beaten her walking goal. She has walked 302kms, very impressive, congratulations.

Secondly I am pleased to announce we have in our Team Ella RedKite bucket , drum roll  please $18,125 , wonderful stuff, imagine what RedKite can do with that amount to help familíes struggling with childhood cancer. Thank you, thank you, thank you,  to each and everyone of you that have put $s in Team Ella RedKite bucket.

But alas we are still 4the on the Team Leader board, and Team Ella want that bronze medal. Can you help? Only four days to go.


So please sponsor me now if you can, I would be most grateful as would the families you are supporting. Just click on the link below. Promise it is safe. Let’s bring smiles to kids in need., as Mali said.
https://www.heartbreaktohopewalk.org.au/fundraisers/juanioreilly

Thanks everyone 

26 May, the kindness of some just melt your heart

Sunday 25th May
Hello family and friends

Well I didn’t want to get up this morning, it was lovely and warm in my bed, but I promised to meet Barry for a walk at Lake Ginninderra, which I did and I bumped into my brother Ang. Another 7kms today, so that 157 kms so far this month.

So family and friends I am extremely touched today but firstly 
I would like to express my thanks to those who today donated to my Heartbreak to Hope walk and to our RedKite bucket.  Big shout out today to Molly, Lance, Robert Rota, Namal and Roslyn Drummond. Thank you so much for adding to our RedKite bucket. 

Why am I so touched today, because the kindness of one special person, melted my heart. Most of you have seen pictures of the delicious Sri Lankan curries I receive from my wonderful neighbours. Well,  Mali and Namal have two beautiful children . Lance is their oldest. Lance is in his first year of Uni at the ANU and works part time, I suspect he doesn’t earn much and would rather spend his hard earned cash on clothes or going out, but NO, he put $s in our RedKite bucket, how kind is that. And best of all he left me this message that melted my heart. “Hi Juani,  Lance here. What you’re doing is amazing and I’m glad that I am so close with someone as good as you. Hope that your goal gets filled”. Wow, I can’t express my thanks to you Lance, I’m lost for words, so blessed to have your family in my life. 

So like Lance I’m hoping we can reach our RedKite bucket goal. 

So please sponsor me now if you can, I would be most grateful as would the families you are supporting. Just click on the link below. Promise it is safe. Let’s bring smiles to kids in need., as Mali said.
https://www.heartbreaktohopewalk.org.au/fundraisers/juanioreilly

Together, we can show these children and their families that they don't have to face cancer alone and support them as they face the toughest time of their lives.


25 May - As Mali said, let’s bring a smile to kids in need

Sunday 25th May
Hello family and friends

Well a beautiful day in Canberra today and I walked 6kms. I have reached my goal of 150kms yippee and crossed the finish line. Round of applause, please.

No donations to our RedKite bucket today, but you still have six days to add to it.  Huge gratitude to all my family and friends who have put some $s in our RedKite bucket and really appreciate all your support with my Heartbreak to Hope walk and our RedKite bucket.

My wonderful neighbour Mali has shared my funding raising page on Facebook and says “Tia Juani, my lovely neighbour and her team Ella are raising funds for kids with cancer. She is almost at her target. Please support her if you can. Let’s bring smiles to kids in need”. Thank you very much Mali.

And my caring friend Karen also shared my fund raising page on her Facebook page. She said “Let’s help Tia Juani on her challenge”. Thank you very much Karen.

And I do have a challenge ahead, haven’t reached my RedKite bucket goal. But we are close. Don’t forget, tax time count down and all donations are a tax deduction. Rather than give your hard earned $s to the tax man, pop it in our RedKite bucket.

So please sponsor me now if you can, I would be most grateful as would the families you are supporting. Just click on the link below. Promise it is safe. Let’s bring smiles to kids in need., as Mali said.
https://www.heartbreaktohopewalk.org.au/fundraisers/juanioreilly

Together, we can show these children and their families that they don't have to face cancer alone and support them as they face the toughest time of their lives.

24 May “Hope is being able to see that there is light, despite all the darkness “ Desmond Tutu

Saturday 24th May
Hello family and friends, 

After tomorrow I hope to be doing what’s happening in my picture. I have walked  144kms, so only 6kms to cross the finish line, I can’t wait. Think I might deserve a Thai massage when I’m done.  

And now I would like to express my thanks to those who today donated to my Heartbreak to Hope walk and to our RedKite bucket.  Big shout out today Dave O’Meara, Dian S, Rosy Brand, Bu Wilson and Malcolm O’Leary, thank you, thank you, thank you for your kindness and generosity.

Well what news do I have to share, lots LOL. I’m pleased to announce that Team Ella has walked 663 kms and Team we only need to walk another 49 kms, then we have walked from Canberra to Melbourne, woohoo, pretty good I reckon for a team of four. If anyone would like to join our team next year, yell out we would love you to join us.

Folks more exciting news about Team Ella we are 4th on the teams Leaderboard . We have raised $17,796, thank you so much to all who have supported us to raise funds so RedKite can continue their vital work, helping families going through the cancer hell. But hey, as you all know I’m a little bit competitive, and Team Ella would love to steal 3rd place, I reckon we deserve a bronze medal. There is not much in it, can you help Team Ella steal the bronze medal, we are hoping, please help if you can, any amount would be lovely, remember “ From little things, big things grow”.  And all we want is to grow our RedKite bucket.

One of my dear friends shared my fund raising page on WhatsApp and wrote “ My dear pink sister and treatment coach, Juani is once again raising money for RedKite to support kids going through cancer treatment. I just can’t begin to imagine how tough it is for them. She has $3,000 to make her target. “ Dearest Rosy, thank you so much for sharing my fund raising page. Hey family and friends would be great if you could do the same so we can reach our RedKite bucket target, only 6 days to go.

Thanks for reading, enjoy the rest of your weekend and hey Con the sun did come out but the wind was very cold



23 May - Hope is the ability to hear the music of the future

Friday 23rd May
Hello family and friends,
Well, for those of you, that don’t live in Canberra or no longer live in Canberra, winter has hit.

Rebecca and I walked together this morning, it was pissing down and rather unpleasant, but the coffee afterwards was excellent.

And now I would like to express my thanks to those who today donated to my Heartbreak to Hope walk and to our RedKite bucket.  Big shout out today to Mali Wijesundara (yes my lovely neighbour who provides me with delicious Sri Lankan curries, you’ve all seen the pics), Michelle Taylor ( my partner in crime in SACAT) and Kathryn and Peter Widdowson  (wow, I’m overwhelmed, they were generous, very generous, my largest donation ever).  Thank you, thank you, thank you to all who donated today to our Redkite bucket. 

I’m grateful to all the individuals who are filling our RedKite bucket, you make me happy. 

Getting closer to the finish line. I have  completed  139kms , only 11 kms  till I cross the finish line, can’t wait, I need a rest day.

Look folks,  we have a healthy amount in our Redkite bucket but we need to fill it.  Guess, guess how much we have in our RedKite bucket? Can we show families struggling with childhood cancer, they don’t have to face it alone and support them as they face the toughest time of their lives?

 Drum roll please , can you imagine how much we have raised for RedKite, family and friends, we’ve reached $12,254, how good is that, but we reached $15,000 last year, can we make that goal again. Would be outstanding if we could. 

Only 8 days to go for us to reach our target, can you help, any amount would be gratefully received and then you don’t need to read my daily blogs, LOL.

This is a wonderful day, I have never seen this one before. 

P.S I saw the final episode of the Piano on ABCiView, thoroughly recommended it.. 
P.S.S thank you Rosy Brand , love the Fado CD you sent me, all the way from London, how blessed am I. 

Enjoy your weekend, I’m hoping the weather improves, some sunshine would be nice




There is light at the end of the tunnel, thanks to your kindness

Thursday 22nd May
Hello family and friends,
Firstly I wanted to let you know I can hear again, . The lovely nurse at the walk in clinic got rid of all that wax. What a relief, phew.

Secondly , the weather in Canberra today was unpleasant, cloudy, grey, cold and wet. Nice to have some rain as my garden is smiling. I managed 6kms today so I’m very close to my target of 150kms, 19 kms to go, bring it on.  

Thirdly, I want to advise that Team Ella is 4th on the Team Leaderboard. Got to be happy with that.

Libby from Team Ella having smashed all of her goals has decided to extend her Heartbreak to Hope walk from 100kms to 150kms. Go Libby and good lucky.

Fourthly, Rebecca from Team Ella has smashed her fund raising goal of $1,000 to $1, 606 in her RedKite bucket and amazing she has walked 252 kms of her 300kms. Wow, what an effort, thank you Rebecca for joining Team Ella, hope you will join us again next year. And Linda from Team Ella is doing really well, she has exceeded her fund raising goal of $450 to has $473 in her RedKite bucket and she is getting closer to her walking goal of 100kms, she has walked 76kms. Great work. I’m blessed to have a great team.

And now I would like to express my thanks to those who today donated to my Heartbreak to Hope, RedKite bucket. Big shout out to Louise Vizard, Amy Hemsworth, Dave Mcrae (2nd or 3rd donation is that Dave?), Elaine Perry (second donation), Karen Sutherland, Jo Bauer, Ella (aged 8 year) and her sister Bo (aged 6 years), Maria O’Reilly, Karleen Holgate, Anonymous, Me ( twice hehe), Dave Allan, Linda Neilands, Therese Knight, Angelo O’Reilly, Jan Aitken, Steve Kirby ( all the way from Thailand), and Ben Cartwright.  Thank you, thank you, thank you for putting $s in our RedKite bucket and best of all today your donations were matched,  by Shaw and Partnered , how good it that. Thank you very much Shaw and Partners.

I am blown away by your donations today, our RedKite bucket is nearly full. Thank you all so much. This means the world to me. As I said I will only hit you up each year for RedKite, no other charity, but I donate to lots as I am sure you all so.

Finally I’m extremely thankful to Shaws and Partners for matching your donations today. However, I’m extremely thankful to have so many people support me and members of Team Ella in our Heartbreak to Hope walk. Your messages of support and encouragement, donations, walking buddies and to fill our RedKite bucket with $s to help families struggling with childhood cancer.

Wow! I am surrounded by generous and kind individuals, how good is that ! 

Thank you, remember donations are matched today, so if you haven’t please help. Muchas gracias 

Heartbreak to Hope 21 May -Congratulations to Libby from Team Ella

Wednesday 21st May
Hello family and friends,

Exciting news today from team member Libby, she has exceeded both her challenges, great stuff. Walking challenge was 100km and she had walked 104kms. Fund raising challenge was $2,500 and she has raised a whopping $2,643. Woohoo, congratulations Libby, great effort , considering you previously had heart issues and thank you very much for joining Team Ella in the Heartbreak to Hope walk. Your achievements are outstanding.Love you girlfriend.

So tomorrow from 0900hrs all donations to our RedKite bucket will be matched (up to $30,000, thank you Shaw and partners).  So if you can put some $s in our RedKite bucket tomorrow that would be awesome, we could double our impact and RedKite could help more families so they don’t have to face childhood cancer alone.

Today a big shout out to Deb Parish, Heather Jackson, Kerry Morrison, the cheeky Mick Serbatoio, Daniel O’Reilly ( all the way from the land of the Long White Cloud), Leah Hopton, Wasam, Charlie Roberts and Eric Lensson. Thank you all for your generous contributions to our RedKite bucket.

 Drum roll please, you won’t believe how much we have in our RedKite bucket, I’m so happy to inform you we have ? 

We got our RedKite bucket to $15,000 last year, but we are doing extremely well. We have, can you guess, any takers, well we have another nine days to get more $s in our RedKite bucket, please help if you can .

We have, surprisingly got $8,445 in our RedKite bucket. Beautiful, thanks again to everyone who has donated. Remember I love RedKite and I can’t do this with out you all. Thanks for all the encouragement to keep me walking, I’ve walked 125km to date and only 25 to go, can’t wait to reach my achievements like Libby.

Don’t forget donations from 0900 hrs tomorrow are matched and end of financial year is coming with donations being a tax deduction. Please help if you can. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

That’s a wrap for today as I’m exhausted, crazy day.

Awesome alert, all donations will be matched

Wednesday 21st May

Hello family and friends, 

A moment no parent is ever prepared for.  

Marina went into shock when she found out her beautiful little boy Isaac had leukaemia. The doctor kept talking but she couldn’t take anything in.  

That awful day was just the start of two horrific years that pushed Marina’s family to the limit – emotionally, physically, and financially.  

Will you please help families like hers cope with the trauma and financial hardship of childhood cancers?  

When you donated before 30 June, your gift will be doubled, up to $50,000 by a generous longtime RedKite supporter. Thank you Shaw and Partners.

Give now, make twice the difference

20 May - interesting info about RedKite birds + Team Ella Update

Tuesday 20th May
Well hello family and friends

I was a little slack today and only walked 5.36 kms but I am getting closer to my 150km update.

Well I am pleased to announce that Team Ella has walked a total of 516 km so far this month and we have $11, 748 in our RedKite bucket so that RedKite can help ease the financial stress facing families with childhood cancer. RedKite can help pay bills, groceries, petrol and connect families with any financial support services they made need. I’m a big fan of RedKite if you didn’t know, they have even helped one of our sponsors. Some of you will know Deb Sheenan (Stumpy’s wife). When she donated to our RedKite bucket she wrote “ Thank you for your efforts in raising so much money. RedKite helped my family when we were dealing with the C devil in 2014”.  Can we raise a little bit more for our RedKite bucket?

Today a big shout of thanks to Kurt Plummer ( yes he is on a walking holiday in Japan with his wife Ulla and still found the time and kindness to put $$s in our RedKite bucket). Also a big thank you to Elaine Henness, Selina Peck, Inés Florez, Brian Dunn and Leanne Taylor. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

And now more interesting information about the RedKite  birds.
This magnificently graceful bird of prey is unmistakable with its reddish-brown body, angled wings and deeply forked tail. It was saved from national extinction by one of the world's longest-running protection programmes. It has now been successfully re-introduced to England and Scotland. Red Kites are listed under Schedule 1 of The Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Thanks to a reintroduction project, Red Kites have made a remarkable comeback from the brink of extinction in the UK. They’re now found across much of Wales, and central and eastern England, as well as parts of northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. You might see them flying over woodland, open countryside and even towns.  

Red Kites are now a familiar sight, soaring high in the sky. They’re one of the UK’s best success stories, with the RSPB playing its part in their recovery. In just a few decades, they’ve gone from being on the brink of extinction to much higher numbers – there are now around 6,000 pairs of Red Kites in the UK. Pretty wonderful news, I reckon.

Thank you to all who have donated to our RedKite bucket, so RedKite can continue to provide their vital services to families dealing with childhood cancer.

Your kindness will change someone’s world - 19 May

Monday 19th May
Hello family and friends, 

Big walk today with lovely views of Canberra from One tree hill near Hall (check out the photo). I managed to walk 10.56kms today and I climbed 14 floors according to my fitness app, (LOL), yes lots of up hill stone steps (yuck), not a bad day considering it was cold.  So I’m pleased to let you know I’ve walked 116km, with only 34kms to go, might take a rest day soon. Any takers to join me for a walk next week?

Today I am thankful because three kind individuals donated to our RedKite bucket to support me in my Heartbreak to Hope walk, so RedKite can continue to provide a lifeline for families facing childhood cancer. A big shout out to Sally Stephens, Tony Bevan and Kim Whitman, thank you so very much. 

I am truely amazed,  family and friends of your kindness and generosity. We have  raised $7,457 for out RedKite bucket. I am most grateful.  Would be awesome to get our RedKite bucket to $7, 800. We are third on the individual leaderboard for funds raised, that’s pretty good, I reckon, in fact I’m delighted, thinking how many families facing childhood cancer we can help. Thank you everyone, I cannot thank you enough and I can’t do it without you.

Did you know the red kite is a large bird of prey with distinctive angled , red wings and a long, reddish-brown, forked tail. Red kites are scavengers feeding on scraps and small prey like rabbits. They have a wing span of 1.8 metres and weigh 1 to 1.2 kg with an average life span of 4 years. I will find a photo and share tomorrow. 

Enjoy your evening

Top news article for today 18 May

Sunday 18th May
Hello family and friends,
What was I thinking, asking my friend  Waseem to join me for a walk this morning. Yes the sun was shinning but it was blowing a freezing gale and I forgot my gloves, dam.

So I am please to inform you that I have walked 106kms hooray only 44kms to go. My beautiful but crazy friend Rebecca, can you guess how far she has walked? An amazing 210km, well done Rebecca. 

Today a big shout of thanks to Donna Billinghust and Nancy Clarke, thank you very much for your donation to my Heartbreak to Hope walk and our Red kite bucket.

Other interesting news is that Team Ella is 7th on the Leaderboard, wooohoo, not bad for a team of four, thank you team (Linda, Libby, Rebecca and I)  appreciate all your efforts in walking and raising funds for RedKite to continue to assist families facing childhood cancer. Other great news from Team Ella, we have walked 448kms and raised $11,016. Great stuff. 

The RedKite website has had a system error in processing donation receipts. For receipt issues please email community@redkite.org.au or call 02 9219 4000. I’m told the error has been fixed, but just in case, as I didn’t get my receipt.

Don’t forget the end of the financial year is nearly upon us and all donations to RedKite are a tax deduction.

Well, having clocked up 106kms I am going to put my feet up and watch another episode of the Piano on ABC iViewer.

Thank you everyone for supporting me with my Heartbreak to Hope RedKite walk. Remember this is the only charity I will continually ask you to support each year.

Cariños 
Juani

17 May update , I’ve nearly hit 100kms

Saturday 17th May
Hello family and friends,
Well I have nearly hit 100km, I’ve walked 94km so only 56km to go, yippee. Today I walked with my friend Jones around Lake Ginninderra. Glad I walked this afternoon as it was very foggy this morning.

No donations to our RedKite bucket today but we have till the end of the month to raise more funds for RedKite so they can continue their vital work with families facing childhood cancer. 

Would be great to get some more $$$s in our RedKite bucket.  Thank you very much to all whom have donated to date. I am truly thankful.

16 May, I had no energy today

Friday 16th May
Hello family and friends, 

Well, I don’t know why but I have run  out of puff today. Didn’t complete the One tree hill walk with my awesome friend Rebecca but we gave it a good nudge. Went for a wee walk this afternoon, but I still am lacking energy. Hopeful it will return tomorrow.

I’m pleased to announced I managed just over 10km today, I’m not sure how. So I now walked 94 km and only 56 km to go, bring on the end of the month please. I’m knackered 

Well lovely family and friends 
A big shout out to an Anonymous donor and the lovely Patsy McDonald , thank you kindly for your generous donations to our RedKite bucket. But hey, there is room for more kindness to be placed in our RedKite bucket to help families facing childhood cancer. 

If you can add to our RedKite bucket, please do, if you can’t I fully understand. Cost of living, wow. Hope you’ll forgive me if I hit you up again for a donation if you haven’t helped fill our RedKite bucket.I’m desperate but we have till the end of the month so you can save up.

And I’ve walk 50% of my kms, gotta be happy with that

Have a lovely weekend. 

16 May Team Ella update, NB exciting reading

Friday 16th May
Good morning family and friends,
Oh I didn’t want to get up this morning but promised to meet Rebecca to walk One Tree Hill at Hall. Team Ella has raised $10,575 yippee, well done, thank you to all who have donated.

Big shout out to Jake and Lynne O’Callagan (their third donation), Susan and David Black, Anonymous, Kim Ward and Kerrie and Rick Bawden, thank you, thank you, thank you for helping RedKite to assist families facing childhood cancer, couldn’t think of anything worse.

Team Ella has been pushing the kms, we reached 368.6kms to date, my goodness we have walked to Albury, woohoo. Hey we might make it to Melbourne by the end of the month.

Please if you haven’t added to our RedKite bucket please do, to help RedKite assist families facing childhood cancer from the time of diagnosis all the way through their cancer nightmare. 

Better get ready for my morning walk. Have a good day all.

15 May, feeling flat , not feeling the love

Thursday 15th May
Hello family and friends, 
Today, feeling flat, I have contacted everyone , I know to help me raise funds for RedKite  my family and friends and still our RedKite bucket is not full. I’m lost as to how to get more  funds to fill our RedKite bucket . Suggestions please 






I walked 5.53 km today.  

Shout out to Kerrie and Rick  Bawden, , Kim Ward, Karen Gruber, Susan and David Black.

Team Ella has walked all the way to Albury, we might make it to Melbourne by the end of the month.  So team Ella have $10,517, can we make $11,00 i our RedKite bucket.I serious hope so. Thank you

Oh happy days, not for families facing childhood cancer, but Our Redkite bucket is smiling today

Wednesday 14th May
Hello Family and Friends,
 Saw my Radiation Oncologist today, they are happy, phew, only  another four or three years to wait to see if I have beaten this cancer, but must say I am feeling very positive.

And on that positive note I got my largest single donation to our Redkite bucket  today from a sponsor, a whopping $500,  ( dam it wasn’t a matching donation day) thank you so much, you know who, you are, thank you so much for supporting me.

But I have other awesome sponsors I would like thank, Gail Freeman &Co Pty Ltd ( you want a good t accountant , , she is the go to, ) Mark Smith, Martin Leonard and Margaret Beresford-whylie.

And I’ve walked 78kms. But hey family and friends I only have $6,578 in our RedKite bucket. Last year we raised $15,000. Can you help me to reach $7,000, I’m hoping as I want to support RedKite

And there is another star in Team Ella that I have to share with you

Tuesday 13th May
Hello Family and Friends 

Two Updates in one day but I had to share. I have to tell you about Libby who is also a Team member of Team Ella. It’s amazing that Libby offered to join the team, but I’m thankful she did and hope she will join us again next year.

Libby is recovering from serious health issues, but has managed to raise $2,585 for her RedKite bucket , woohoo. .

Wow, wow, wow Libby has managed to walk 66kms in the Heartbreak to Hope walk. I’m so proud of you. I don’t know how you  has done it. 

Family and friends I’m so, so, so happy she joined Team Ella. 

Libby you should be more than chuffed with your heart performance, Libby has pushed herself up yucky and nasty hills. You should be so proud of yourself Libby  Jevtovic, you made 10km today, first time after your operation

Your are an inspiration, you shine brightly, you are fearless, determined and committed.

I love all those things about you

Naming team member who has walked 135km in 12 days, my the determination

Tuesday 13th May
Hello Family and friends,

Firstly thank you Geoff Hazel for the awesome photo, nature is amazing, isn’t.

Well I walked 7.63 kms this morning it was a little chilly. So I’ve walked 66km and only 84km to go, phew. 

Oh ok, so talking of kms who in Team Ella has walked 135 kms in 12 days? No other than my adorable and crazy friend Rebecca Forge. Amazing stuff Bec, congratulations, you’ll make 300kms easy this month with your momentum and determination. Please put your hands together for Rebecca. Hope she joins the team next year.

Why do I participate in the Heartbreak to Hope walk and attempt to raise as much as I can for RedKite, because I love the work that RedKite do. RedKite is a lifeline for families facing childhood cancer.

Big shout out today for your kindness and generosity,  Cath Grassick, Barb Jackson, Olga Vareskic, Louise McDonough, Jenny Chapman and Ally May, thank you, thank you, thank you.  

Well, lovely family and friends we have $5,836 in our RedKite bucket, would be awesome to make $6,000, imagine what RedKite could do with that. Please help, either join me for a walk to keep me motivated or add funds to our RedKite bucket. Can’t do this without you guys. 

Someone in Team Ella has walked an amazing 135kms and it’s only day 12 of the challenge. Guess who?

Monday 12th May
Hello family and friends,

A stunning day in Canberra today, with all its colours, just beautiful. Well I walked 8kms today, this morning I walked part of Lake Ginninderra with my buddy Barry Donges and we enjoyed a delicious coffee afterwards, thank you for walking with me Barry. Anyone want to join me for a walk, just shout out. Another  short walk this afternoon. I managed 8kms today, got to be happy with that.

Talking of being happy, Team Ella have $9,151 in our RedKite bucket. Thank you to all whom have donated, if you haven’t please help, small or large, every little bit helps families facing childhood cancer. Can we get to $9,500? 

So the big question is, who in Team Ella has walked 135 kms in 12 days?????? Keep you guessing until tomorrow.

A big shout out today to Judy Neilands and Jodie Durrant for your donations to my RedKite bucket. Thank you so much.

Stay warm Canberra friends

Team Ella update, making sure families facing childhood cancer are cared for and support

Monday 12th May
Hello family and friends,
Well I got carried  away pottering in the garden yesterday and only walked 3km but promise to get a reasonable walk in today as I’m meeting my friend Barry for a walk.

Big shout of thanks to Marlene McCelland and Felipe O’Reilly for adding to my RedKite bucket. 

Well I’m very pleased to announce that Team Ella has walked 274. 41 km, that’s all the way to Sydney, amazing work team. And best of all we have raised $8,924 , can we fill our RedKite bucket to $9,000? Please, please, please. Thank you Libby, Linda, Rebecca and Mali for being part of Team Ella and supporting RedKite to continue to do their vital work.  Well done team 

Day 10 crazy day, but family and friends I have awesome news

Saturday 10th May
Hello family and friends, I had a mental /crazy day, only got time to walk 3kms, need to pull my finger out to reach my 150km challenge. Well what can I say, except I’m stoked, how kind and generous you all, are, thank you, thank you, thank you.Drummer , drum roll please, I have the best news, but I’m not sharing till tomorrow. Big shout out to Chris Hyland , Deb Sheehan and Harry Haines. Thank you kindly for ensuring families facing childhood cancer can be provide with emotional, financial and practical support.. 

You’re making a difference, family and friends, you’re making sure RedKite can help  families facing cancer every step of the way. I’m so grateful. Hugs to all who have donated 

Well a very bad day for fund raising

Friday 9th May
Hello family and friends , not feeling the love today, I’m feeling disappointed, I thought I had a village behind me., I think I have and you are being slack. Pick up your game. 

Huge shout out to Lyn Milburn, thank you, thank you, thank you. Alas our Redkite bucket still hasn’t reached $5,000. I reckon with this fantastic village around me, we can fill our bucket to $5,000. I’m hoping family and friends to help families facing childhood cancer. 

I wore Chuti out today , we walked just over 7kms, yes I had to carry her, she is a darling 

9 May 2025 I’ve nearly walked a 3rd of my RedKite walk

Friday 9th May
Hello family and friends,
Lovely walk yesterday afternoon around my suburb, I walked 7.31kms and the sun was shining. Have clocked up 44.31 kms only 105.69 kms to go. ( oh my goodness) Anyone want to join me for a walk next week? Our RedKite bucket has amazingly reached $4902.45. Would be awesome to reach $5,000, can you help.

Big shout out to Carita Konrad, Peter Westwood, Rowan Gavey, Mary O’Brien and a Facebook donor. Thank you so very much for your generosity in helping families facing childhood cancer. You are changing someone’s world for the better

We doubled our impact yesterday, thank you so very much

Thursday 8th May
Hello family and friends,
My goodness, some  whooping donations yesterday and best of all they were matched by Shaw and Partners, thank you. I’m so grateful to you all and I cannot thank you enough. I can’t do this without you, your support means more than you know.

Drum roll please
Team Elle has raised $8,176 and we have walked 168kms. Thank you Rebecca, Mali, Linda and Libby.

Today, a big shout out to Mark Kennedy, Janet Papas, Eliza Cloherty, Julie Jones, Elaine Perry, Marilyn Steele, Gail Cantle, two anonymous donors, Ann Ertzen, Hanoi kid, Rosemary Cantle and  Allen Cloherty.  

I’m extremely pleased to announce we have $4,622 in our RedKite bucket to assist families facing childhood cancer. Oh happy days for our RedKite bucket, thank you all so very much. Would be awesome if we could get to $5,000.

Donations today will be matched by Shaw and Partners

Tuesday 6th May
Hello family and friends, I’m really tired but I did walk 8.1km yesterday with Chuti, she was so excited.  And I am really excited to say we have $1,541.29 in our RedKite bucket. Big shout out toAnn McEvoy for you generous donation but I’m thinking with Shaw and Partners matching your donations today, would be awesome to have $1800 in our RedKite bucket. What do you think? Can we do it? Thank you Shaw and Partners for supporting this amazing charity 

I  struggled with my cancer treatment but I survived,. Please help me support tamiles with childhood cancer. This is the only time I will ask (yearly) for support for my Heartbreak to Hope walk, either walk with me or donate to RedKite, so  awesome things can take place.

Hoping to receive a million emails tomorrow telling me you, dear family and friends have donated to my RedKite bucket as Shaw and Partners will match your donation. How good is that! Wonderful thank you Shaw and partners


Day 4 May 2025 HOPE IS A POWERFUL FORCE

Sunday 4th May
Hello Family and Friends, 
Well at last I have returned home, after we drove 3,000kms and I am going to kill my friend Simon but it was fun. So looking forward to sleeping in my own bed tonight. I managed to walk 5kms today, alas no donations to my RedKite bucket, still sitting at $1,335, would be awesome to reach $1,500. Many thanks to all those that have donated to date to support my Heartbreak to Hope walk, only 130km to go, oh my goodness. Thanks to all, for your support and encouragement for my walk to support kids and families facing the trauma of childhood cancer. Funds raised will help families with financial, practical and mental health support as they face the toughest time of their lives. Hope you can help

Day 2 lovely walk with Honey who sniffed and sniffed

Saturday 3rd May
Day 2 of my 150km challenge started yesterday and I am pleased to announce that 1,775 people across Australia are walking with me, woohoo.

Today a huge shout out to my very generous supporters, Ann Hazel, Lynne O”Callaghan (second donation, yes you can donate more than once LOL) Rod Rhodes all the way from Southhampton in England and the lovely David McRae from WA.. Thank you very much, the Red Kite bucket is not yet full but we have raised $1312.59 I am very grateful to everyone that has donated to my Heartbreak to Hope walk to help kids and families facing childhood cancer. Be great if we could reach $1,500

Day 1 Red kite walk with my friend of 44 years who is under cancer treatment

Thursday 1st May
Hello family and friends, this is my crazy friend Carol whom I have known for 44 years. ( yes I don’t feel old LOL) She has just finished chemo treatment, radiation to go. Amazingly we walked 4km today together.  Carol you are awesome and you Got this . Love you girlfriend.

BIG SHOUT OUT to Jenny Fleming all the way from South Hampton in England, Lynne and Jake O’ Callaghan and Jarrett Blaustein, for your kind donation to Red Kite and thanks for your support.

Woohoo more donations for Team Ella THANK YOU

Wednesday 30th Apr
Hello family and friends,
A big shout out to my anonymous sponsor,  also Julie Ayling, Peter Grabosky, Yvonne and Alwyn Paul, thank you so much for your kindness and for joining me to show these brave children and their families that they don’t have to face cancer alone.

Thank you from me and Team Ella, (Ella is in the picture below, she fought strong battle and now has her angel wings)

Red Kite fundraiser new team member Libby Jevtovic

Saturday 26th Apr

Thanks Libby Jevtovic for joining the team. Any other friends or family want to join Team Ella.

Every month in Australia, 90 children are diagnosed with cancer. 

For those families, their lives are changed forever. Cancer puts families under enormous pressure. It can feel like it’s impossible to hold it together.

This May, Team Ella is taking part in the Heartbreak to Hope Walk to raise funds for Redkite to provide emotional, financial and practical support and care to families facing childhood cancer.

Please sponsor our team by making a donation to support our walk. 

Together, we can show these children and their families that they don't have to face cancer alone and support them as they face the toughest time of their lives.

Thank you.


Team Ella

New team member for Team Ella - Red Kite Fundraiser

Saturday 26th Apr

Thanks Libby Jevtovic for joining the team. Any other friends or family want to join Team Ella.

Every month in Australia, 90 children are diagnosed with cancer. 

For those families, their lives are changed forever. Cancer puts families under enormous pressure. It can feel like it’s impossible to hold it together.

This May, Team Ella is taking part in the Heartbreak to Hope Walk to raise funds for Redkite to provide emotional, financial and practical support and care to families facing childhood cancer.

Please sponsor our team by making a donation to support our walk. 

Together, we can show these children and their families that they don't have to face cancer alone and support them as they face the toughest time of their lives.

Thank you.


Team Ella

Go Team Ella, 12 days till I commence my fund raising walk to support families facing childhood cancer

Friday 18th Apr
Hello Family and friends

Well I do hope you will support me with my fund raising efforts for Red Kite who support families facing childhood cancer. I’m committed to walking each day in May but I need your help to reach my fund raising goal.

Today a big shout out to my dear friends, Brian and Maria Peck (whom have been in my life forever LOL) from Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. They shouted Rebecca and I lunch yesterday at a lovely Italian place, so nice to catch up in person after 12 months. And  today they were  very generous in providing Team Ella with a much needed donation. Thank you so much Brian and Maria, appreciate you supporting me in my quest to raise funds for Red Kite.

And also today, what a lovely surprise, a big shout out to a Facebook friend donation, I don’t know who you are,  but thank you very much. You donation will help a family supporting their child facing cancer. 

So family and friends, we have raised $350, can you help me raise $1,500.? Here’s hoping.

Many thanks to my sponsors to date, who have donated to Team Ella, let’s make life easier for families facing childhood cancer. I can’t do it without you.

Cariños 
Juani
PS picture is from my time in Timor Leste, the Archbishop was visiting, so traditional dress it was.


13 days till I commence my Red Kite fundraising walk

Thursday 17th Apr
Hello family and friends, my Red Kite walk and fund raising commences in 13 days, I hope we can support families facing childhood cancer. I can’t imagine what it must be like being a child going through cancer treatment, nor a parent supporting your child during this difficult time. This is my annual fundraiser and I hope to hit you all up for a donation in May, small or large, it will make an impact on the lives of families facing childhood cancer.

Big shout out to my walking Camino buddy Susan Harwood for your most kind donation.

Hoping for no injuries during May.

Let’s go Team Ella.

Thank you to my Sponsors

$815

Kathryn And Peter

So proud of you Juani .

$815

Matched Donation

$515

Margaret Beresford-wylie

Juani, you are amazing!

$317.07

Marilyn Steele

With loving thoughts of my very dear friend Juani O'Reilly. She has such a strong moral compassion-- she has touched the hearts of so many people.

$317.07

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$317.07

Gail Cantle

All the very best of luck.

$317.07

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$300

Marilyn Steele

$250

Chris Mckay

$211

Gillian Sward

$208.60

Anne Hazell

You go girl!

$208.60

Allan Cloherty

Great work Juani keep it up.

$208.60

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$208.60

Eliza C

Happy to support a wonderful cause!

$208.60

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$160.36

Rosemary Cantle

Thinking of you Jauni. Rosemary.

$160.36

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$160.36

Libby

Go go go Juani!❤️

$160.36

Mia Mateo

Por ti Juani ¡buen caminar!

$160.36

Nancy Clarke

What great work Juani. It's lovely to be able to support this good cause.

$158.25

Anonymous

Hi Juani. I will donate, but can I give you money directly to you.

$150

Anonymous

$112.30

Jo Innes

Beautiful Juani. What a champion! ❤️

$112.30

Therese Knight

Go Juanni!

$112.30

Matched Donation

$112.30

Sally Stephens

good on you Juani

$112.30

Steve Cooke

$112.30

Louise Vizard

You are a Champion Juani my dear selfless friend. 😘

$112.30

Matched Donation

$112.30

Malcolm O’leary

$112.30

Anonymous

$112.30

Ines Florez

Buena suerte!

$112.30

David Luke

Nice one Juani!

$112.30

Jodie

$112.30

Yvonne & Alwyn

You are a tireless champion for those needing support. Go Juani!

$112.30

Donna Billinghurst

Sending hugs x

$112.30

Brian And Maria Peck

Power to you for a powerful cause xx

$112.30

Erik Lensson

❤️

$112.30

Todd & Carmen Brown

Go girl!

$112.30

Karen Lucas

$112.30

Annanddan

$112.30

Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd

well done, Juani Great cause great kids

$111.02

Anonymous

$106.12

Head Bone

Good job Dear

$106.12

Felipr Oreilly

$106.12

Greg Ranse

Best of luck on the walking Juani

$106

Julie Ayling

Good on you Juani!

$106

Jarrett

Go Juani! All the best

$106

Juani O'reilly

$106

Matched Donation

$103.72

Anonymous

Well done Juani xxx

$103.72

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$100

Olga Vareskic

I hope this gets you to your goal, Juani!!! Sending you all my love!!! 🩷

$100

Ann Mcevoy

Good luck Juani xx

$80.25

Janet Aitken

Great cause

$80.25

Matched Donation

$64.67

Deb Sheehan

Thankyou for your efforts in raising so much money. Red Kite helped my family when we were dealing with the C devil in 2014 🩷

$59.41

Leah Hopton

You’re awesome Juani xx

$57.30

Elaine Perry

$57.30

Matched Donation

$57.30

Rowan Gavey

$57.30

David Mcrae

Have fun.

$57.30

Martin Leonard

$57.30

Rosanne Brand

You are a star

$57.30

Jenny Fleming

Well done you Juani - you are an inspiration.! x

$57.30

Peter Westwood

$57.30

Carita Konrad

$57.30

Kerrie Bawden Rick Bawden

You are amazing happy walking Juani

$57.30

Elaine Perry

All the best

$57.30

Anonymous

$57.30

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$57.30

Linda Neilands

Happy stepping it out 🚶‍♀️You go girl 😘

$57.30

Matched Donation

$57.30

Michelle

You go girl!!!

$57.30

Matched Donation

$57.30

Ben Cartwright

A noble cause and close to my heart as well. My full support, love and encouragement Juani. You always have been one of my most favorite people in the world from our time in Orang Gang and Belconnen crime.

$57.30

Jaklyn Ocallaghan

Go juani ,you always give your all

$57.30

Selina Peck

Well done Juani, what an important cause - very proud of you! :)

$57.30

Brian Dunn

$57.30

Delia Quigley

$57.30

Kurt

Great cause Juani. All the best for the journey.

$57.30

Anonymous

$57.30

Mali Wijesundara

Proud of you hush Juani. You go girl❤️

$57.30

Matched Donation

$57.30

Jackie Ellery

$57.30

Steve Kirby

$57.30

Ann Ertzen

Best of luck Juani!

$57.30

Matched Donation

$57.30

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$57.30

Mick Serbatoio

❤️

$57.30

Judith Neilands

Go Juani!

$57.30

Patsy

Go Juani!!😁

$57.30

Deb Parish

You’re a champion

$57.30

Anonymous

Good luck with the walk Juani - well done! Hope to see you in class. Jan

$57.30

Walsa Fox

$57.30

Charles Roberts

$57.30

Anonymous

$57.30

David Mcrae

Way to go Juani, walk some kilometres for me.

$57.30

Matched Donation

$57.30

Roderick Rhodes

$57.30

Louise Mcdonough

Such a great cause Juani - massive effort

$57.30

Anonymous

$57.30

Karleen Holgate

Great cause. Walk with style 🙂

$57.30

Anonymous

How brave of you. Congratulations Juani.

$57.30

Jenny Chapman

Very proud of you Juani !!!!

$57.30

Hanoikid

$57.30

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$57.30

Susan Harwood

Go Juani - superstar!

$57.30

Jo-anne Bauer

$57.30

Lyjak Ocall

Go juani !

$57.30

Mark Smith

With my feet full of arthritis, can I ask you take a walk for me please

$57.30

Steve Uhe

$57.30

Karen Sutherland

Hope this little bit helps

$57.30

Matched Donation

$57.30

Raphael Dingli

Done.

$56.02

Marlene Mcclelland

$54.12

David Harrison

$54.12

Lyn Milburn

Keep up the good work. Hope it helps

$54.12

Mark Coppin

Well done Juani

$53

Dave O’meara

$53

Juani O'reilly

Let’s fill the RedKite bucket

$53

Matched By Shaw And Partners

$53

Juani O'reilly

$53

Susan And David Black

A wonderful cause Juani and so like you to be stepping out for it xxx

$53

Anonymous

$53

Amy Hemsworth

$53

Matched Donation

$53

Namal Perera

Well done Juani. We are very proud of your achievements.

$53

Mary O'brien

Go Juani xo

$50

Juani O'reilly

$50

Dian

You're amazing, Juani!

$50

John Hedges

$50

Ian Corey

$50

Facebook Donation

$50

Teresa

Congratulations JUANI for doing this it goes to a great cause

$46.68

Anonymous

$33.15

Beverley Woods

Well done Juani

$33.15

Tony Bevan

$33.15

Leanne Taylor

What a great thing to do. Good luck

$33.15

Anonymous

Go Juani!!! Love Elle and Bo

$33.15

Ruth Baussmann

Go Juani. Wonderful cause. 🥰

$33.15

Ian Houghton

$31.97

Robert Rota

$27.81

Isa Bartkowiak

Brilliant work, Juani. Much love.

$27.81

Janet Papas

Once again, well done you!

$27.81

Julie Jones

Best of luck to reach your goal Juani

$27.81

Denise Lord

Woot woot! Go you good thing! xx

$22.58

Kim W

$22.58

Sirps F

$22.58

Bu Wilson

$22.58

Wayne Comyn

Go girl.

$22.58

Karen Gruber

Great cause! Go Juani 👏

$22.58

Kim

Good luck Juani ❤️

$22.58

Chris

What a massive effort Juani. Well done x

$22.58

Elaine Henness

You are such a trooper Juani - the world could do with more people like you.

$22.58

Roslyn Drummond

$22.58

Marta Espinoza

Juani, I’m so proud of you! Your heart and strength are truly inspiring. Every step you take makes a difference. Keep going! 💛

$22.58

Matthew Javi Oscar

Get those steps up Juani!

$22.58

Daniel

Go well!

$22.58

Meg Smith

Good luck, Juani, for such a wonderful cause.

$22.58

Ally May

Good on you Juani xxx

$22.58

Pauline Woodley

Great job Juani 👍

$22.58

Donna Hofmeier

Good luck.x

$20.53

Facebook Donation

$20

Angelo O’reilly

$20

Matched Donation

$20

Molly F

Good on you Juani. Wish I could give more but every bit helps. Xxx

$20

Cath Grassick

$20

Barb J.

Good on you Juani

$20

Anonymous

$11.65

Lance Perera

Hi Juani, Lance here. What you're doing is amazing and I'm so glad that I'm close with someone as good as you. Hope that your goal gets filled :)

Our Team

I am walking 150km for kids facing cancer