Wollongong’s Jack Buckley is no stranger to pushing his body to the limits, but later this month he’ll take on his biggest challenge yet, all in honour of his beloved mum.
Jack and his siblings tragically lost their mum Keryn to stroke in February 2025. She was only 58.
Determined to turn grief into action, last year Jack completed 58 half marathons in 58 days in her memory, raising more than $30,000. Now, in 2026, the year Keryn would have turned 60, he’s raising the bar even higher.
The 31-year-old plans on running for 58 hours straight, completing 6km loops with only short breaks in between to rest and refuel. His mum remains his driving force.
“It’s going to be physically and mentally demanding. Rain, hail or shine, I’ll be finishing. There will be very little sleep, and I’ll just have to keep moving, but the goal is simple, put one foot in front of the other and keep going,” Jack said.
“Mum’s my biggest motivation. When things get tough, I’ll think of her. I don’t want other families having to experience what ours did. By raising vital funds and awareness, we can help prevent stroke, save lives and support people on their recovery journey.”
The Wollongong community is expected to play a big role, with friends, family and supporters already planning to join Jack for sections of the run.
“There’s a lot of people keen to get involved, whether that’s running a loop with me or just showing up to support. That community support makes a huge difference, especially when things get tough,” he said.
“This is about more than just the run. It’s about making a difference.”
Funds raised will support Stroke Foundation’s work in preventing stroke, saving lives and helping survivors recover.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy said it’s inspiring to see Jack turn his heartbreak into action.
“Keryn’s story is a devastating reminder that stroke can strike anyone, at any age. What Jack is doing to honour his mum is truly remarkable,” Dr Murphy said.
“I have no doubt Jack’s mum Keryn would be so proud of what he has achieved over the past two years. We can’t wait to see him at the finish lane after an incredible 58-hour effort.”
An Australian experiences a stroke every 11 minutes, and regional Australians are 17 per cent more likely to have a stroke. Stroke is a significant cause of disability, and is also the 4th leading cause of death in Australia, claiming over 9,100 lives in 2024.
Jack’s journey will begin at Eco Community Fitness in Bellambi at 4am on Friday 12 June, he’ll then complete 6km loops around the northern suburbs, finishing on Sunday 14 June at 2pm.
