For the past 242 days, Shakira Cree has pushed herself towards an $8000 goal.
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The heavy diesel apprentice from a Central West gold mine has exceeded 18,000 push-ups in an attempt to raise funds and awareness for Soldier On.
The 26-year-old from Cobar took on the push-up challenge to raise awareness for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). She decided her time would be put to better use by raising funds for the organisation that supports those physically or mentally wounded by battle.
“I thought it would be a great way of giving back and also showing young people what you are capable of when you commit to something and push through when it gets tough,” she said.
As of Monday Shakira had reached 18,306 push-ups and $5733 with the help of 89 sponsors.
She said she hasn’t missed a day regardless of illness, holidays, work or just bad days.
“I’m just trying to be consistent,” Shakira said.
“I didn't set an amount of push-ups I was going to do, only that I do them non-stop and everyday. I’ve gradually increased from 22 to now doing 116 daily.
“The most challenging part is doing push-ups when you’re mentally somewhere else, sick or really tired from work.”
She added push-ups through onset soreness has also been difficult as she suffers from RSI.
Shakira’s goal is to raise the remaining $2267 before day 365 of the challenge.
“The support has been on and off, I will have a good week when I might get a couple of hundred dollars in sponsors, then other times I won't see anything for weeks,” she said.
“I just need to stay optimistic at those times.”
People can donate by visiting https://soldieron.giveeasy.org/campaigns/pushups-for-ptsd/ or by texting SHAKIRA to 0400 866 866. All donations go directly to the Soldier On fundraising portal.
Shakira believes now is the time to support the organisation which assists veterans and their families after service.
“Everyone knows someone in the forces or who has served for Australia,” she said.
“With all the suicides increasing after deployment it's crucial we support them how we can.”