Duncan James is set to embark on an extraordinary challenge that will see him trek across Australia’s 10 highest peaks in the Kosciuszko National Park.
The Married At First Sight groom, 38, is preparing to face ‘cold feet and wet socks’ in a gruelling 60-kilometre hike over four days later this month.
Duncan’s ambitious venture is not just a test of physical endurance but also a passionate effort to support Youngcare – a charity dedicated to assisting young Australians with high physical support needs.
This cause hits close to home for Duncan, who is propelled by a personal connection that drives his commitment.
At the age of 26, Duncan’s childhood friend Steven suffered a devastating accident, which drastically changed his ability to speak and move independently.
MAFS groom Duncan James is set to embark on an extraordinary challenge that will see him trek across Australia’s 10 highest peaks in the snowy expanse of Kosciuszko National Park
Duncan, 38, is preparing to face ‘cold feet and wet socks’ in a gruelling 60-kilometre hike over four days later this month
Today, Steven manages his life with the help of carers, embodying the spirit of independence and choice in care and housing — principles that Youngcare staunchly advocates.
Reflecting on his friend’s journey, Duncan shared: ‘It’s that mental side – that freedom of choice, that feeling of independence. Like “Hey, I’m making some decisions here and I’ve got control of my life and it’s not everyone doing everything for me”.’
‘Because I know that’s exactly how my friend feels.’
At the age of 26, Duncan’s childhood friend Steven suffered a devastating accident, which drastically changed his ability to speak and move independently. (Both pictured)
‘I can see firsthand how people in these situations need help like Youngcare, and so this particular cause really struck home because it’s something that my group of friends see with Steve each week.’
Duncan, although an active individual, acknowledges the novelty and difficulty of this upcoming challenge.
‘I walk the dogs a lot with Evelyn, but I’m not sure that’s going to be the same,’ he laughed.
‘I can see firsthand how people in these situations need help like Youngcare, and so this particular cause really struck home because it’s something that my group of friends see with Steve each week,’ Duncan explained
It comes after the reality star urged his followers to get behind his challenge for charity
It comes after the reality star urged his followers to get behind his challenge for charity.
‘I’ll be trekking up the mountains and putting myself through some hard times, in an effort to raise money for YoungCare,’ he wrote.
As of Wednesday evening, Duncan has raised $3,340 of his $20,000 goal.
Readers can donate to Duncan’s challenge for Youngcare here.
Duncan rose to fame after a stint on last year’s season of Married At First Sight. He has since found love with fellow bride Evelyn Ellis, who was paired with another groom. Both pictured
***
Read more at DailyMail.co.uk