Queensland league legend Trevor Gillmeister, iSelect Titans foundation assistant coach, today completed his 1450km trek from Townsville to Brisbane to raise money for asbestos related diseases.
The tough former Maroons back-rower overcame a stress fracture in his ankle suffered on the fourth day to continue down Queensland's east coast to raise awareness and much needed funds for the Asbestos Related Diseases Support Society of Queensland.
He is not sure how much was raised but it will be well over the $100,000 he targeted with over $64,000 in donations and more to come from sponsorship.
"It has opened my eyes to how many good people there are in this country and how many people are affected by this terrible disease," said 'Gilly' who lost his father to mesotheliama.
"There are so many people who die eventually from asbestos related diseases but it is defined as something else. I now feel compelled to do more for the people affected, so many who I met on the way.
"Football has been a big part of my life but I feel compelled to continue the fight for awareness about asbestos cancer and making people aware of the dangers of home renovations on old houses where asbestos may be evident."
Gilly was accompanied on all of the trip by Gold Coast woman Sandra Williamson and son Aiden who walked most of the way, and Sandra's father Don, who lost his wife to mesotheliama, who drove a support vehicle.
If you would like to donate to Gilly's cause go to www.walkforawareness.com.au.
