Madison Clarke

Walking 100K for Oaklee: Remembering My Son and Supporting Sands

In September, I’ll be walking 100 kilometres in memory of my beautiful son, Oaklee, and raising money for Sands – the stillbirth and neonatal death charity.

There are some words that no parent should ever have to say. “I lost my son” is something I never imagined would become part of my story.

Oaklee will always be my son. He will always be loved, always be remembered, and always be a part of our family.

Losing a baby changes you in ways that are impossible to explain unless you have experienced it yourself. There is a lifetime of love for a child who should have had a lifetime ahead of them.

This September, I want to turn some of that heartbreak into something positive.

100 kilometres for Oaklee

I’ve set myself the challenge of walking 100K throughout September in Oaklee’s memory.

It won’t always be easy. There will be days when my legs are tired, days when the distance feels overwhelming, and days when the emotions are even harder than the walking.

But every step will be for Oaklee.

Every kilometre will be a reminder that he mattered, that his life mattered, and that he will never be forgotten.

I’m also walking to help support other parents who find themselves facing the devastating loss of their baby.

Why Sands means so much

Sands supports people and families who have been affected by the death of a baby. They provide support, information and a community for parents and loved ones who are going through something no one should ever have to experience.

Having support during such an incredibly painful time can mean more than words can say.

By raising money for Sands, I hope to help them continue providing that support to other families — families who, like mine, are learning how to carry love, grief and memories all at once.

Please help me remember Oaklee

If you’re able to donate, no matter how big or small, I would be incredibly grateful.

Every donation will help support Sands and will make each kilometre of this challenge feel that little bit more meaningful.

And if you can’t donate, simply sharing my fundraiser would mean so much to me.

This walk is for my son.

For Oaklee.
For his memory.
For the families who need Sands.
And for every baby who should never be forgotten.

Thank you for supporting me, for supporting Sands, and most importantly, for helping me keep Oaklee’s memory alive.

100K in September. Every step for Oaklee. ❤️