For Lucas and his family, Telethon was always a special event they liked to support. But three years ago it took on more meaning when Lucas was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) over the Telethon weekend.
"When I was in hospital, I saw lots of kids that the money from Telethon supported and it felt like more of a reason to support and to help raise money," Lucas said.
So this year he did, by participating in not just one but two Telethon challenges with his younger brother, mum and dad.
12-year-old Lucas and his family arrived at Telethon at 4am on Sunday 19 October, to jump on trampolines for two hours as part of the Boogie Bounce Challenge, which raised over $8000. They then raced over to the Alcoa Cycle Challenge to take part in three gruelling sessions on a bike to help raise more than $100,000 for Telethon.
Lucas had a great time participating in the challenges and has already set his sights on next year's Telethon where he hopes to do a 24-hour challenge.
Despite living with T1D, Lucas said he has never let it stop him from being active and challenging himself.
"As soon as I came out of hosptial, I was straight back to my normal life of lots of football and basketball. I think it's important to know that your diabetes can't stop you doing whatever you want," he said.
Congratulations Lucas and you family on a massive achievemen for a great cause!