86-year-old man will walk 320km for a very important cause
Walking 320km is a daunting idea for anyone.
But for 86-year-old Alan Staines OAM, it’s what he’s got to do to get an important message into the public arena.
On Thursday, Alan began start his walk from the gates of Parliament House in Canberra to Sydney’s CBD, all to raise awareness about suicide and its lasting impacts on those left behind.
The mission is expected to take 30 days.
Alan, who is the National Secretary for Postvention Australia, tells Ben Fordham there are too many people who aren’t getting help in time.
“At this point in time, so many are falling between the cracks and getting no help whatsoever. We’ve got to do more.
“The government are doing a fair bit in suicide prevention, providing resources and finances, but there’s got to be a lot more from all parties… to do more for the bereaved.
“They go through a rollercoaster of emotions and many of them are getting no help whatsoever.”
Alan says we can all play a part in reducing the suicide rate and helping those who have been impacted by such a devastating loss.
Click PLAY below for the full interview with Alan Staines