Central Coast Teen Embraces Eminem Spirit for Mountain Climb Charity Event
Ashton Burgess, a 15-year-old resident of Wadalba on the Central Coast, is channelling the energy of hip-hop legend Eminem as he prepares for an ambitious 18-kilometre round trip to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko this Saturday. The trek forms part of the Krazy Kosci Klimb, a fundraising initiative supporting the Cerebral Palsy Alliance's health and wellness programs.
A Musical Motivation for a Personal Challenge
Ashton has named his fundraiser "Will the Real Slim Shady Please Trek Mount Kosciuszko?" and has even bleached his hair peroxide blond in tribute to the iconic rapper. "I chose Slim Shady as the theme because I love Eminem and his music," Ashton explained. "A lot of his songs have a message about building yourself up and being the best you can be."
His passion for Eminem's music dates back to before he was born, with his mother, Mel Burgess, noting that all her children have been raised on the artist's tracks. For the arduous climb, Ashton has curated a special playlist, drawing particular inspiration from the lyrics of Lose Yourself: "Look, if you had one shot or one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted in one moment, would you capture it or just let it slip?"
Overcoming Adversity with Athletic Excellence
Ashton was diagnosed with right-side hemiplegia and cerebral palsy at just ten months old after his parents observed he wasn't meeting developmental milestones and had limited use of his right arm. "Initially a shock, as we didn't know how it would affect him and us," Ms Burgess recalled of the diagnosis. However, the family has always encouraged Ashton to pursue any endeavour, never making him feel different.
His sporting achievements are remarkable. Ashton holds Little Athletics NSW records in the boys' 13 to 14 age group for the 400 metres, 800 metres, shot put, and javelin within the "Track and Field 37 class" – a Paralympic classification for standing athletes with a co-ordination impairment on one side of their body. He also plays soccer for Kanwal Rovers alongside able-bodied children.
To manage muscle stiffness associated with his condition, Ashton has undergone treatments including Botox injections in his arm and leg. More than a year ago, he had surgery to lengthen the tendons in his leg, reducing his reliance on Botox.
Family Support and Fundraising Success
Ashton will be accompanied on the trek by his mother, father Matt, and pop Wayne. He expressed deep gratitude for his parents, acknowledging they "somehow juggle work and family with so much love." Ms Burgess, while admittedly daunted by the prospect of climbing Australia's highest peak, said proudly, "He's always given it a go. He's more suited to the trek than I am to be honest."
Team Ashton has already raised an impressive $32,584, making it the second-highest amount garnered for the Krazy Kosci Klimb event. The funds will directly support the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, which provides evidence-based therapies, services, programs, technology, and equipment to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. The event itself aims to inspire young people with cerebral palsy to achieve challenging personal goals.
Ashton's journey is a powerful testament to resilience, family support, and the motivational power of music, as he steps up to seize his own moment on the slopes of Mount Kosciuszko.
