Burning desire to help
We were sent this article from Cameron Jackson which was published in the Leader Community Newspaper - report by Shaun Turton.
'Burning desire to help' - fire fighter turned charity cyclist.
Enduring the worst on Black Saturday has driven Cottles Bridge's Cameron Jackson to step forward with his best foot every day.
For the 31-year old firefighter, the tragic day transformed his natural inclination to help others into a focused force to make a difference.
Following three weeks on duty after the February blaze, Mr Jackson wielded his new-found determination to raise more than $45,000.
His fundraising efforts - lobbying work colleagues to cough up - saw a $16,000 automatic backup generator installed at Panton Hill fire station. As fourth lieutenant at Panton Hill CFA, Mr Jackson said a generator was integral for his station, which lost power several times on Black Saturday. His continued fundraising, however, was inspired by an even more personal tragedy. After falling sick during the year, he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a consequence of an 'ill spent youth'.
Such was the case during the fires, the father of two said thoughts of his children kept his mind strong and determined. "I saw it so many times when we were in danger on the tanker, I could see my kids." Mr Jackson said.
"When we went to the doctors and found out what was wrong I thought it was my time to get off my butt and start looking after myself".
He soon began cycling and has lost 34kg over the past seven months. Mr Jackson has now set his sights on the 210km Around the Bay in a Day bike ride in October. With support from colleagues at Vaughan Constructions, the senior project manager created the Team Vaughan cycling team, which has so far raised about $30,000 for the Smith Family charity. And with his 32nd birthday approaching in October, Mr Jackson said he has several projects in mind for the future.
"Coming away from that (Black Saturday) I've realised I'm a person who can help people and this is just the start of it."
