In June 2022, the remarkable ultra-marathon runner, Callan Gates, arrived at Sydney Harbour after running a massive 250kms from Newcastle along the Great North Walk (GNW), in one single go (without sleep), to raise funds for a charity close to his heart – the Leukaemia Foundation. Despite those around him doubting that he could complete the mammoth feat, Callan defied expectations and pushed his body to its limits, to support the 140,000 people living with blood cancer in Australia.  Callan embarked on the journey in memory of his wife’s (Tara) mum, who sadly died from blood cancer when Tara was just 3 years old. His initial aim was to raise $25,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation, and the growing number of Australians diagnosed with blood cancer, however, he exceeded that target, raising over $53,000 during the run.  Callan’s brother Mitchell Gates, a videographer, captured the entire journey and has created an extraordinary documentary titled The Blood Run, to share their story with Australia.

The Melbourne premiere is happening Thursday, on the 18th of April, at the Lido Cinemas in Hawthorn. All funds from the premiere will go towards raising additional funds for the Leukaemia Foundation, with Callan aiming to top $100K. “Blood cancer, in particular leukaemia, has significantly affected my family, and I have witnessed the aftermath of it.” said Callan “To be able to do something that could create awareness and funds to be able to help find a cure for this crappy disease is something I’m proud to be part of,”.
The Leukaemia Foundation is committed to improving the life of every Australian impacted by blood cancerby providing financial, emotional, and practical support, and by funding life-changing blood cancer research. Leukaemia Foundation CEO, Christ Tanti said, “Community supporters like Cal and his team are vital so that the Leukaemia Foundation can continue our life-changing work and reach our goal of zero lives lost to blood cancer by 2035. “He was not likely to win a gold medal in the Olympics but my god, he won a gold medal for us.”
The Leukaemia Foundation deeply encourages the Melbourne community to attend the Melbourne premiere of The Blood Run, to support the 53 Australians diagnosed with blood cancer each day.