A teenage survivor of domestic violence has braved snow, wind, and rain to complete a 300km run from Christchurch to Timaru and back again.
Rhys Blissett broke down in tears when he crossed the finish line at Hagley Park after almost four days running.
The 18-year-old wanted to raise awareness and funds for Women’s Refuge, an organisation that had supported his family throughout much of his life.
Last year, Blissett did a round trip run from Rolleston to Ashburton to help other survivors, raising $16,000.
Women’s Refuge received 50,000 referrals each year.
Blissett told 1News that domestic violence towards women and children wasn’t talked about enough, and was an issue close to his heart.
“In my past, I’ve always felt like I was very alone dealing with that I think it’s quite cool that people are reconnecting and sharing their story that relates to mine as well.”
Blissett said training had been increased in the lead-up to the run, with more time hitting the pavement and the gym.
He said he had a support team travel alongside him, and friends who joined him at various points.
Blissett completed a pre-police training course last year and eventually wanted to apply for the Royal New Zealand Police College.
He said, throughout his experience with domestic violence, it was the police who were “there once a week”.
“I looked up to them quite a lot as like, you know, guardians and protectors,” he said. “I think I looked up to them so much that I decided that I wanted to become them and help families … be that protector to another child one day and stand up against violence.”
People can donate to Blissett’s fundraiser through his Givealittle page: “300km Run For Women’s Refuge”.
