Get Inspired
There were several reasons that inspired Lee to take on the Half Marathon as part of the HBF Run for a Reason, but the biggest was his own health. He wanted to test his limits and explore what he is capable of, both mentally and physically. He often chooses to place himself in uncomfortable situations intentionally, believing that challenge builds resilience and makes other areas of life feel more manageable. Taking on this run felt like another way of doing exactly that.
Growing up with two Deaf parents, Lee witnessed firsthand the everyday barriers they faced around communication, access, and inclusion. Living on a remote island, his family was fortunate to be surrounded by a supportive community, which made a meaningful difference. He chose to fundraise for Deaf Children Australia because of the organisation’s commitment to supporting deaf and hard of hearing children, parents, and families, helping them navigate life and build strong community connections.
Being raised by Deaf parents shaped who Lee is from a very young age. It fostered a strong sense of independence and adaptability, as he often needed to advocate and act on behalf of his parents in various situations. It also made him deeply aware that many everyday systems are not designed with everyone in mind. Through his parents, Lee learned resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of persistence in navigating a world that is not always accessible.
Living with chronic pain, taking on a half marathon became a way for Lee to test what his body could do on an entirely different scale. Finishing the run reminded him that he is capable of far more than he often gives himself credit for. Training was not always easy, and there were many challenging days, but committing to the process reinforced the value of consistency and resilience. For Lee, this challenge has been about listening to his body, learning what works, and continuing to move forward one step at a time.
