Soldier On ambassador, and returned soldier, Private Liam Haven has been in training for an epic 650km walk from Sydney to Canberra to raise money for charity.
The 25-year-old will be accompanied by his faithful Guide Dog, ‘Omen’, when he walks the 600km trek along Australia’s east coast in September. Liam hopes to raise over $1 million for Soldier On and Guide Dogs Victoria, two charities that have helped him in his rehabilitation since losing his sight whilst serving with the Australian Army in Iraq in 2008. Omen will join Liam for an average 6-8 km per day in a journey expected to take just under a fortnight.
Liam visited the Saints’ headquarters earlier this year and met with the playing group to re-tell the story of the incident that left him without sight in his left eye and just 2% vision in his right eye when an Improvised Explosive Device exploded while he was on a routine patrol.
Guide Dogs Victoria matched Omen with Liam two years ago, and the pair has been inseparable ever since. His faithful companion accompanies Liam to Swinburne University, where he is currently studying Psychology and Community Services.
“Omen is a great addition to my life and makes moving independently in the community a lot easier whilst at the same time being a great companion. It is my hope that through the act of one wounded soldier and his Guide Dog, it will give the community inspiration to rise up and support organisations such as Guide Dogs Victoria and Soldier On,” Liam said.
Liam also received support from Soldier On following his rehabilitation, telling his story to help inspire others in their recovery and raising money for Australia’s wounded servicemen and women.
Liam will be donating all proceeds from his walk to the two charities, with plans to give significant contributors the chance to hear his story first hand and join him on part of his journey.
To support Liam and Omen in raising funds for Guide Dogs Victoria and Soldier On, please visit http://onefootforward.gofundraise.com.au.
