By Lena Daskalakis
In a remarkable display of grit and determination, local hero Brandon Grech has embarked on a 905-kilometre journey from Bondi Beach, Sydney, to Kilmore, Victoria to raise awareness and funds for osteosarcoma, a rare but aggressive form of bone cancer. Joined by his best mate Zac, who simultaneously covered 700 kilometers from Adelaide, the duo’s mission is clear: to shine a spotlight on a disease that has claimed too many lives too soon.
Their monumental effort is on behalf of T2KO (Time 2 Knockout Osteosarcoma), a nonprofit founded by Zac following the heartbreaking loss of his best friend to the disease at just 19 years old. Now, with personal grief driving their purpose, both men are determined to make a difference by helping those currently battling osteosarcoma and honoring those who’ve lost their fight.
“The run itself was an emotional and physical challenge,” Brandon says, reflecting on the journey. “But with strength and determination, we achieved it.”
Brandon’s dedication to the cause runs deep, powered by the courage and stories of those affected by osteosarcoma. His relentless commitment includes an intense training regimen, clocking between 100 and 140 kilometers per week. His drive is so intense that on some days, he rises at 2 a.m. to run a full marathon before heading to work, all while balancing time with his wife, Jessica, and their two young children, Kota and Swayde.
Born and raised in Sunshine, Brandon’s life has always been about overcoming obstacles. Having trained in karate from the age of eight and boxing from 24, he’s no stranger to pushing his physical and mental limits. He credits his personal transformation to the hardships he’s faced, and he’s eager to show others that anything is possible with perseverance.
“We’ve all been through tough times, but you can turn your life around and achieve incredible things,” Brandon says. “No human is limited.”
After hearing Brandon’s story, another local, Melissa Wassilieff, jumped at the chance to help raise awareness and funds to support those currently in the fight against osteosarcoma. Melissa used her store in Sunshine North, The Original Pastizzi Company, for a raffle and a meet and greet so Brandon could share his story with the community.
“He is such an inspiration and a great local to get behind,” Melissa says. This fundraiser is just the beginning, with more events planned in the coming weeks to amplify the message and gather support.
“This journey isn’t about us,” Brandon adds. “It’s about those who are fighting osteosarcoma and those who’ve lost their lives to it.”
With the courage and spirit of a true fighter, Brandon Grech is proving that no distance is too great when it comes to making a difference in the fight against osteosarcoma.
You can follow Brandon’s mission on Instagram @t2ko and
www.T2KO.com.au
