At this year’s Melbourne Marathon, four dedicated runners – Nathaniel, Chloe, Cliona and Caoimbhe – took on the challenge to not only cross the finish line, but to raise vital funds for Shake It Up. Together, they raised an impressive total of $6,733 in donations for Parkinson’s research, with each stride taking us one step closer to finding a cure.

Athletic events like the Melbourne Marathon are just one of many ways people can band together to support Shake It Up. We’re big on putting the “fun” in fundraising, and we love seeing our community come together and celebrate their passions—whether that’s running, hiking, biking, or any other challenge—while raising awareness and vital funds for Parkinson’s research.

Nathaniel’s second Melbourne marathon

We chatted to Nathaniel after he conquered what was his second crack at taking part in the Melbourne Marathon.

This year, it was Nathaniel’s goal to race the full marathon distance and finish the race in under four hours. Reflecting on his experience, Nathaniel said, “I managed to achieve my goal of running under four hours and used the energy of my fundraising efforts to help me mentally survive the second half of the run.

“I was really happy with my result and running a faster time in the second half of the distance.”

The inspiration that drove his run 

Nathaniel has a close personal connection to Parkinson’s disease, and he’s dedicated to doing what he can to help research find a cure.

“My inspiration for fundraising has come through loved ones in my family battling the disease,” he explained.

“My Poppa has battled Parkinson’s for over 8 years. I’ve seen him remain positive and overcome different stages of the disease.

“My partner’s grandma also battled Parkinson’s and sadly passed away at the start of the year.

Seeing both their battles and their strength to get through tough times has inspired me to take the opportunity to do what I can to raise awareness and assist in helping find a cure.”

For Nathaniel, supporting Shake It Up felt like the obvious choice. “I love the idea of supporting a charity that is making a difference through not only supporting research goals but also sharing the experiences of those battling, carers, and those like me who are sharing the stories of the fundraising journey.”