Dr Christine Bowles (Chris), a Trauma and Emergency Physician at Royal North Shore Hospital ran the City2Surf in August 2022 to raise $500 for her department. Chris signed up for City2Surf earlier in the year and decided to add a fundraising challenge to her run to support an area of the hospital that she cares deeply about.
Chris after the City2Surf with two of her three children
“I did City2Surf because I like a challenge and wanted to raise funds and awareness for our trauma patients who deserve and need the best care in a tough situation.”
Chris specifically wants to support patients who have been affected by domestic violence. She believes that one of the best ways to directly make a difference is to support the Emergency Department and Trauma Services which is where many women go when they present to hospital.
“Our trauma patients, especially women, are often presenting with injuries caused by domestic violence so I’m raising money to make a difference for them.”
Chris has worked at Royal North Shore Hospital for four years and is a consultant Emergency Physician within the Trauma Service. She is also a lecturer at the University of Sydney, creating a new unit of study for aspiring trauma specialists.
Chris with her colleagues
Chris also encourages other staff to get involved in running challenges for the NORTH Foundation because it’s accessible and easy for most people.
“Running doesn’t require much more than a pair of trainers and a bit of perseverance.”
Despite not being much of a runner when she was younger, Chris now loves to get out and enjoy the fresh air, listen to music and be by herself in nature. She says running to raise money gave her running an even more meaningful purpose and is looking forward to doing more community fundraising in the future for the NORTH Foundation.
“I never considered myself to be much of a runner but I love that I could hit the pavement to do something worthy that means something to me,” said Chris.
To support Chris and help her reach her goal, visit her fundraising page.
