Sarah who is in her final year studying physiotherapy has an insight into what the children and their families suffer through her work. She was accompanied by young friend 12-year-old Sophie Newbold of Queenstown who suffers from the rare illness, CFC Syndrome.

“Sophie was great. She biked beside me for a while and she has such a positive attitude.”

The ‘Ride for Life’ was not easy but Sarah is modest about her achievement.

“I had a few problems initially with a sore knee but once I got that sorted I was fine. I had so much support throughout the 24 hours particularly from old school friends who came in and out to see me at all hours.”

She says she had no trouble staying awake –“that was the least of my worries” – but admits she was happy to get off the bike at the end of the challenge.

Cure Kids general manager Thelma French says Sarah’s fundraising effort was outstanding.

“She was so motivating and she had such fantastic support from her family, friends and from members of the public who passed through O’Connells Centre during the 24 hour challenge. She really did an incredible job.”