Harvey was born!

I was slowly growing up, not mature yet but getting there. My favourite Grandmother died the year before and it was my first experience of loss, she was more a close friend than a granny. I missed her.

My confidence was growing bit by bit, and I was making friends well. I was now going to the Boxing Club every day, brining 3 to 5 other working friends to train with. It looked like a possible new future.

On 22nd January 1985 at about 1pm, in the boxing club, I didnt feel that well. I walked out of the training room to the bathroom to get sick, but in fact I went blind for a few moments, then I collapsed. I was still awake. I could only see a speck of vision, like a keyhole, so I pulled myself to the dressing room with one arm to try to sit up. I couldn't as my balance was gone, and Fergal my work mate, came down to see was I ok. He spoke but I did not understand wht he was saying, and I couldnt reply either, I thought this migraine is a bad one. Still awake, an ambulance driver came in and examined me asking a few questions, I couldnt speak now, and in no time I was in an ambulance on the way to hospital. I was vomiting, dark red blood, but again I was used to migraines so I thought nothing of it. I remember a mask being put on my face and that was all I could remember.

A wonderful bunch of friends, who supported me before I even started

I am in Melbourne, staying in the Greenhouse where the idea of 'Believing in Harvey' came from in 2002. I am so lucky to meet, Andrew, Ksenia, Kelly, Njadia, Richie, Mark, Jill, Rose, Shane and more, who gave me positive vibes for the 2 months here in my home away from home. If Melbourne was situated on the west coast, I would start the walk right now, with the perfect team members here, but of course I'm 3,400km away from the starting point which I planned to begin from Steep Point.

Soon I will go to Perth and talk to new backpackers to consider playing any of the roles needed in this challenge, driver, cook etc. I have met so many people who are made for it, but no one is available for the entire journey, and starting date may be more challenging than I first thought.

When I fly to Perth, and get the essentials, the vehicle and team members, and a new wheelchair. It is such a big undertaking, and when I reach there I do not know anyone, just my second cousin who I have never met. I believe I will be helped as what I wish to do is good with the intentions to make friends right across the journey.

I am sure I will learn more than I can even imagine.

Frank Muldowney