Geoff Nyssen has learnt to turn adversity into empowerment and wants to bring others along for the ride.

Geoff was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a terminal blood cancer, three weeks after his 40th birthday, on February 18, 2014.

“On the day that I was diagnosed I was told that, statistically, I have 8-10 years to live.   I don’t subscribe to those statistics.  Statistics look backwards and I look forwards.  I look forward to my 80th birthday.  It will be one big party.

“I grew up on the Mornington Peninsula. This is my community.  I have multiple myeloma. Those with multiple myeloma, and those who support us, are my community. I wanted to give back to my community - something bold, something engaging and something that would bring a smile to the faces of families within my community, especially the kids.” 

On March 26, Geoff and his team will deliver the inaugural My Mount Eliza Run and Fun Festival.  “As a rallied group of locals, we believe that our ability to empower others starts with our personal wellness, so we decided to volunteer our own talent and time to create a sustainable annual festival that benefits the community for the longer term.” 

The festival will include trail run around the Mount Eliza quarry, a premium skate park competition and many family activities and exhibitions.

Go to mymounteliza.org.au to register for the trail run and for more details.  

Frankly Frankston Magazine is a proud sponsor of the My Mount Eliza Run and Fun Festival.