Going the distance: Emma’s 600km run for men’s health

One day, out of the blue, Mo Sister Emma decided to run 600km in a month. It’s a thought that doesn’t cross many minds; even fewer entertain it. But the towering distance couldn’t deter the Raumati South woman. In fact, it brought her to places she never imagined possible; all while crushing her fundraising target.

Emma, what a massive year! We’ve been alongside you through it all. How does it feel now, looking back on everything you achieved in your first year as a Mo Sister?

I often sit back and just take it all in. It was one of the most exhilarating and humbling times of my life. I feel honoured and proud to be part of the Movember community. The people I met and those who stood by me made it even more special. I couldn’t have asked for my first year to go any better.

From the start, you committed to running 600km across the month (20km every single day!). We could only imagine how tough that was. When did you come up with the idea, and what made you set such a huge challenge?

I randomly came up with the idea while driving on a long road trip. At the time, I felt stuck in life and needed purpose. I set a big goal to prove to myself what I’m capable of, and to show others what they’re capable of. I wanted to push myself mentally to connect with what so many people experience living with mental health challenges.

There were definitely some brutal days during your challenge. What kept you lacing up and hitting the pavement every day?

On the hardest days, I’d dedicate my run to someone who had passed away or was struggling with mental health. I’d think, “Today, I’m doing this for those who can’t get out of bed.” There are so many people who aren’t here who should be, so being able to run is a privilege I never took for granted.

You raised over $10k for men’s health and finished as our top Mo Sister of the year. Absolutely incredible work. What do you think helped you connect with so many supporters?

Never in a million years did I think I’d raise that much! I thought maybe $2,000 max. I think when you lead with pure intentions, people feel that. It was never about anything else;it was about raising money and awareness. The people I met through Movember helped spread the word, and the more I talked, the more people listened. Conversations became a powerful ripple effect.

You also represented Movember at the Auckland Marathon as part of the Movember Athletics Club. What did it mean to take on that iconic race alongside 19 other Mo Bros and Mo Sisters?

It meant the world to me. Every single person in that group taught me something. I had humbling and encouraging conversations about mental health and life while running. That group will always have a special place in my heart, and I know we’ll stay connected for a long time.

We were stoked when you got the invite to appear on The Morning Shift Show! What was it like stepping into the spotlight and sharing your Movember story on such a big podcast?

I had never been so nervous! I felt honoured to share my story on such a big platform. The more we talk about men’s mental health, the more people feel safe to reach out. It was incredible to chat with them.I’ve looked up to them for ages. Imposter syndrome definitely kicked in, but it was such a surreal, amazing experience.

You absolutely embodied the Movember spirit. What advice would you give to other Mo Sisters thinking about jumping in?

Dive in headfirst and get amongst it! We need more females backing this incredible cause. No matter your gender, we’ve all got each other’s backs. Don’t be afraid of failing. Don’t doubt what you’re capable of. And just have fun, life’s too bloody short.

Inspired? Join the movement and make a difference this Movember. Sign up at movember.com.