The Puckapunyal resident and army spouse will complete the 96km of the challenge during March to support veterans’ mental health, but she faces an obstacle in doing so.
Ms Humphreys was diagnosed with the rare neurological condition orthostatic tremor about two years ago.
Last September, the awareness month for the condition, she walked nearly 14km to prove to an online community all struggling with OT that you can do what you set your mind to.
Now, she’ll be walking the distance of the Kokoda Track in about four weeks to fight back against the condition that will eventually impact her ability to walk.
She said challenging her own mobility continued to spread positivity within the OT community.
“Staying positive is really good, I keep sharing positive updates with our group and I’ve had so many (that have said it has) inspired them to do things,” Ms Humphreys said.
“Someone even said, ‘I actually look forward to seeing your posts come up’.”
Although the challenge of March On is enough of a reason for her to sign up, Ms Humphreys said it was also about supporting a cause close to her heart, in more ways than one.
“Whilst the focus of my walk during the March On challenge is to help our veterans, I have also been personally affected by suicide,” she said.
“I lost my best friend when we were only 17. This was at a time when it wasn’t talked about — it almost seemed like a taboo topic.
“This March will mark 27 years since her passing. It’s important that people know that they can talk about their feelings, to not bottle things up or feel ‘weak’ to speak up.
“It is okay not to be okay, and sometimes we need help, whether that is professional support or just a friend to lend an ear.”
Almost 11,600 participants have signed up to March On this year, each walking to honour the courage and sacrifice of veterans.
Individual participants and teams also raise funds throughout the challenge to go towards Soldier On, a not-for-profit dedicated to supporting current and former Australian Defence Force personnel.
With a deep connection to the army, Ms Humphreys said the challenge was also about supporting the people close to her.
“As an army spouse and with many friends in the services also, this cause is close to my heart,” she said.
“When you hear the word veteran, you could be mistaken for thinking veteran means ‘old’. However, according to information from Soldier On, right now in Australia, veterans aged between 24 and 44 are 2.7 times more at risk of suicide than other members of our community.
“So, during the month of March, I will be walking 96km. I will be walking for the veterans and their families, and I will also be challenging myself and pushing the bar a little further to show myself that even with this neurological condition, I can still do it.”
Ms Humphreys has so far raised more than $400 to help prevent veteran suicide.
To support Ms Humphreys’ March On challenge, donate via www.marchonchallenge.org.au/fundraisers/kyliehumphreys
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, support is available at Lifeline on 131 114 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
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