Heather White

Reading progress

The MS Readathon hasn’t officially started yet I’ve already managed to read  nine books. I was hoping to have read more new and  unfamiliar titles (or at least ones I’ve never read - I realise texts might be new to me but they’ve been around years if not decades) but so far, I’ve only finished two. I seem to want to revisit titles including some old favourites like ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ and ‘Back Home.’ Most surprising re-read: H.H Kirst’s ‘Hero in the Tower.’ I read it once in 2018 and found it quite drawn out and dark. This time, I ploughed through it in two days.

Sailing new seas, exploring new depths and discovering new texts

For the last three decades, one of my greatest joys in life has been re-visiting my favourite books. Some of them have been read to death. Literally. One need only look at my Baby Sitters Club book collection; I’d be hard pressed to find one that isn’t either dog eared, missing a quarter of its spine, a rip at least 25% of the way up its spine or a worn cover – sometimes more than one and sometimes, all of the above. Same as my 17 year old copy of ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ and my H.H Kirst books, especially the Gunner Asch ones. All of the H.H Kirst books have been bought second hand and each one over three decades old by the time they’ve come into my possession. At least one has fallen apart from being read so often. During the MS Readathon, I continue to re-visit my old favourites. Since resuming this fundraiser in the 2020s, however, a new joy has emerged: discovering new books, new authors and even genres I may not typically read.

 

Outside of working hours and outside of the MS Readathon fundraising period, I am ashamed to admit that I am easily more tempted by screens and electronic entertainment. Compared with the concentration required to read a book, they’re effortless and more importantly very addictive. Books that were once devoured within hours or days (occasionally, weeks) are more likely to sit about collecting dust and accumulating (I’m learning that buying books and reading are almost like two different hobbies) for months, sometimes years. While these habits are difficult to change, a visit to the local library a few years ago changed how I approach reading and the MS Readathon. I went there to print something and was drawn to book displays containing new releases and one of books made into films. I emerged with no less than six books that day and devoured them within the month.

 

Since that particular MS Readathon, I’ve changed my approach to how I read. Firstly, my goal used to be to read 5 books; my goal has increased to 10. Secondly, at least 50% of them must be ones that I’ve never read. Even if they’re by the same author(s) that I normally read or in the same genre as my usual reads. Thirdly, I’ve kicked off the last two Readathons by treating myself to a new book or two. Not only does it give me something new to look forward to but knowing it goes towards my reading tally, I look forward to having a digital detox and sink my teeth into it.

 

Having registered for the MS Readathon, I kick off with my first new book of the year: Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey (2019).

Reading for a great cause

My name is Heather and 2026 marks the eleventh MS Readathon that I’ve participated in. I learned about this fundraising event when I was in upper high school and decided to combine my love of reading with raising money for a great cause. The MS Readathon became an annual event for me over the next four years. In 2020, I resumed participating in this annual event after an 11 year hiatus. It has once again become an annual event for me. 

One of the reasons that I fundraise for the MS Readathon specifically is because unlike cancer (whether specific ones like breast cancer or cancer in general), there are fewer charities who provide support services to the 33, 000 people in Australia who have Multiple Sclerosis and other neurological conditions. These people and their families are equally as deserving of our support to help them cope with their condition(s) and give them some dignity.

In 2026, my goal is to raise $500 to help fund helplines and provision of appointments with MS nurses who aide patients in managing their condition(s) and treating the symptoms. Additionally, these funds go towards running information sessions for the families of people with MS and/or other neurological conditions (epilepsy, MND, etc) including how to navigate the NDIS to secure financial support and other assistance. My fundraising goal is subject to change, however, depending on how soon I can raise the funds; in 2024, my initial goal was $500 and I surprised myself by personally raising $880.29.

The goal is to read 10 books. Apart from fundraising for a great cause, I also like to use this chance to have a digital detox and discover new book titles that I wouldn’t otherwise read.

I know money is tight for most people at the moment but if you’re able to spare a few dollars and sponsor me for this great cause, I’d really appreciate it. It can be in the single figures. All donations are extremely appreciated.