The 25 year-old (pictured) will participate in Fred’s Big Run, and run 200km throughout the month to raise funds for The Fred Hollows Foundation — a non-profit aid organisation founded in 1992 by Australian eye surgeon Fred Hollows.
The foundation focuses on treating and preventing blindness and other vision problems.
Mr Bodey, who is a teacher at Edward Public School, said he was inspired to get involved with the fundraiser after catching the running bug during COVID-19 restrictions.
‘‘I picked up an interest in running while in lockdown and just thought this was a worthy cause,’’ Mr Bodey said.
‘‘I think vision is very important, particularly with my work as a teacher.
‘‘I see just how big a role vision can play in a child’s learning, so to give more people the opportunity to fix their vision is crucial.
‘‘Everyone knows the work Fred Hollows Foundation does overseas in less fortunate countries, but they also do a lot of work with the indigenous community in rural and remote areas of Australia.
‘‘The foundation helps train and empower local eye doctors, nurses and health workers to create a sustainable system of care in the communities that need it most.
‘‘Just $25 can restore sight to someone who is needlessly blind, and change their lives forever.’’
The first day of Mr Bodey’s challenge is tomorrow.
As the Deni Rovers thirds coach, he says his daily running goal will be aided by the demand when training with his Under 17s squad.
‘‘I’ve been doing plenty of running in the build-up to August so I feel like I’m well prepared for this.
‘‘We might have to put the footy down at training later in the month and work on our running fitness if I need to notch up a few extra kilometres.
‘‘I also encourage anyone else who wants to get involved or just join me for a run to do so.
‘‘There is so much benefit for your own and other people’s health and wellbeing by doing this, so it’s the perfect combination.’’
Mr Bodey is aiming to raise $1000 for his cause and is more than one third of the way there, having raised $358 already.
‘‘To have raised that before starting was quite surprising to me,’’ Mr Bodey said.
‘‘I’d like to thank those who have already donated for their support.’’
To donate to the cause, click here.
Rovers host Demons