Imagine standing at the edge of Broken Hill, looking east towards Newcastle, and someone tells you they're going to run the entire distance. Your first thought might be, "Are they completely mad?" But when you learn why Mitch is lacing up his running shoes for this mammoth 1,132-kilometre journey, it all makes perfect sense.

This isn't just any ordinary ultra-marathon challenge. This is Huxley's Heroes – a campaign that's capturing hearts across New South Wales as Mitch prepares to pound the pavement through some of the state's most iconic towns, all in the name of raising awareness and funds for Angelman Syndrome.

For those unfamiliar with Angelman Syndrome, it's a rare genetic condition that affects the nervous system, causing developmental delays, challenges with speech and movement, and often seizures. Despite these significant hurdles, people living with Angelman Syndrome are renowned for their joyful and loving nature – bringing endless smiles to everyone around them.

At the heart of this incredible campaign is little Huxley, who was diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome at just four months old. His story has inspired what can only be described as a grassroots movement of support, with the ambitious goal of raising over $150,000.

Mitch's route reads like a country NSW road trip wishlist: starting in Broken Hill on August 22, he'll weave his way through Wilcannia, Cobar, Nyngan, Narromine, Dubbo, Dunedoo, Merriwa, and Denman before finally crossing the finish line in Newcastle on September 19.

That's 29 days of running through the heart of regional Australia – an average of nearly 40 kilometres per day.

"Every step, every blister, every kilometre is for the families who need our support," organisers say, and you can feel the passion behind those words.

The campaign has garnered support from FAST Australia (Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics), lending credibility and reach to this grassroots effort. There's also a Heroes Auction planned for the General Roberts Hotel on September 19 – the perfect way to celebrate Mitch's arrival in Newcastle after his epic journey.

What makes Angelman Syndrome particularly challenging for families is its rarity. When your child has a condition that affects roughly one in 15,000 births, finding support networks and research funding becomes an uphill battle. That's where campaigns like Huxley's Heroes become so vital – they don't just raise money, they raise awareness, and sometimes that's even more valuable.

Interestingly, Angelman Syndrome has found an unlikely advocate in Hollywood actor Colin Farrell, whose son James lives with the condition. Farrell has spoken openly about his family's journey, helping to shine a spotlight on this rare genetic disorder and the families who navigate its challenges every day.

But back to our local hero. As Mitch prepares for what will undoubtedly be one of the most challenging physical feats he's ever undertaken, the support from communities along his route has been overwhelming. People are planning to meet him in towns along the way, offering encouragement, refreshments, and most importantly, donations to the cause.

For anyone wanting to follow Mitch's progress or contribute to the campaign, organisers suggest keeping an eye on Facebook and Instagram for real-time updates on his journey. Those interested in learning more can contact [email protected], and donations over $2 are tax deductible – always a nice bonus when you're supporting such a worthy cause.

There's something beautifully Australian about this story – a bloke taking on an impossible challenge for a mate's kid, communities rallying around a cause, and the simple belief that if we all pitch in, we can make a difference. Whether Mitch realises it or not, he's not just running for Huxley; he's running for every family affected by rare genetic conditions, showing them they're not alone in their journey.

So as 22nd August approaches and Mitch takes his first steps out of Broken Hill, spare a thought for the incredible journey ahead – both the physical one he's about to undertake, and the ongoing journey that families like Huxley's face every single day.

Sometimes heroes don't wear capes. Sometimes they just wear running shoes.