Rowan Sangster

About My Challenge

This year I’m taking part in the Lifeline Push-Up Challenge.

From June 3rd to June 26th, I’ll be completing 3,307 push-ups, representing the number of Australians lost to suicide last year.

For me, this challenge is personal.

Over the past couple of years, I’ve experienced some of the hardest periods of my life. Like many dads, I’ve faced separation, uncertainty, loneliness, and the emotional toll that comes with being apart from your child.

There are days where you feel like nobody understands what you’re going through.

Days where you question yourself.

Days where the stress, the legal processes, the waiting, and the uncertainty can feel overwhelming.

The reality is that many men don’t talk about these things.

We’re often taught to keep moving, keep working, keep providing, and keep it all to ourselves.

But behind closed doors, many fathers are struggling.

Many men are struggling.

And too many feel like they have nowhere to turn.

One of the things I’ve learned is that community matters.

Having good people around you matters.

Having a place like Double Dragon Gym where you can show up, train, talk, laugh, and feel connected matters.

Sometimes a conversation can make all the difference.

Sometimes knowing you’re not alone can make all the difference.

That’s why I’m doing this challenge.

Not because my struggles are unique, but because I know there are thousands of other people carrying burdens that nobody sees.

If sharing my story encourages even one person to reach out, ask for help, check on a mate, or keep moving forward through a difficult time, then it’s worth it.

If you’d like to support me, please consider donating to my Lifeline fundraiser.

Every dollar helps support people who may be facing their darkest moments and reminds them that there is hope, there is support, and there are people who care.

And if you’re going through a tough time right now, please don’t do it alone.

Reach out.

Talk to someone.

Keep showing up.

One day at a time.