Tauranga couple Maloni Latailakepa and Debbra Hazell are taking on a personal challenge of walking up and down Mount Maunganui for 24 hours.

Why? To raise funds for Breast Cancer NZ Foundation.

To add to the challenge, both Debbra and Maloni will be walking in weighted vests, one weighing 18kgs and the other weighing 13kgs to represent the years they have each lived since their loved ones have been gone due to breast cancer.

“My partner lost his mother to breast cancer 18 years ago and I lost my grandmother 13 years ago, we have chosen this challenge to show a sign of respect for our loved ones, and raise funds for others who may have to go through this life-changing challenge and build awareness,” says Debbra.

Debbra says committing to walking for 24 hours shows their desire to make a difference.

“We will be starting at the base by the Camp Ground and going up and down for 24hrs, on the stairs side of the track.”

The couple will start the challenge at 7am on Saturday, March 9, and will continue the challenge until 7am Sunday, March 10.

Details for the 24 Hour Mount Walk. Photo supplied.

“We are aiming to continuously walk for the 24hrs minus the occasional refreshment, food and toilet break.

“Our strategy is simple, keep going and keep each other accountable and motivated – it’s one day out of our lives, something we shouldn’t take for granted.

“And knowing that we are doing this to raise funds for a cause that is close to our hearts is enough to keep us going.”

Debbra says that each year 3500 people are diagnosed with Breast Cancer, that’s 3500 families whose lives will forever change.

“We also understand that losing someone you love leaves an incredible void in your life, we have both lost a significant loved one to this awful illness, it’s been 18 years since my partner has hugged his mum, something that you cannot replace.

“We have made this a physical and mental challenge for ourselves to show our commitment to it, we will both motivate and inspire each other over the 24hrs knowing that we are in it together.”

Maloni Latailakepa and Debbra Hazell and their story. Photo supplied.

Anyone can join the couple on their challenge during the 24hrs.

“They can come for a walk with us throughout the 24hrs to keep us motivated and we would love people to donate to our fundraising page Breast Cancer Foundation NZ - The Art of Wellness - 24 hour Mount Challenge (bcf.org.nz)

“We thank FTPANZ (Functional Training Products), Mount Metal Recyclers, Trident Equipment and Canvas and Gaia Wellness and Recovery Papamoa for their support in helping us bring this to life.

“We also want to thank everyone who has already donated and shown their support.

“Please follow and support The Art of Wellness on Instagram and Facebook @the_art_of_wellness777 to keep up to date with how we are tracking and also see where what surprises are coming as we build a community based around overall wellbeing and health.”