Providing an outlet for better mental health2023 in Review
Reflecting on the journey of Therapy on Wheels throughout 2023, it’s truly astonishing to realize how much we accomplished in just one year. This year has been all about embracing every opportunity, spreading joy, having a blast, and building meaningful connections.
The holiday season in December and January provided a breather from our usual hustle, allowing us to make some exciting upgrades to our car. From the eye-catching pink parachute to a fresh sponsor and thank-you sticker on the rear window, and a wheel alignment tweak courtesy of the Bridgestone Morley crew—our vehicle got a makeover. Additionally, we introduced a new drop-off location for containers for change recycling at our HQ, featuring two sizable blue bins.
Throughout the year, our community rallied together, enabling us to raise over $2500 through our recycling efforts. Although this amount is a bit lower than the previous year, it brings our total fundraising to nearly $9000 since we started collecting three years ago.
The year kicked off with a playful NPK Street Outlaws call-out video to Beat The Heat, resulting in a good-natured response. While the proposed charity race with NPK didn’t materialize, it paved the way for discussions with Beat the Heat and the Perth Motorplex for a unique fundraising race.
Behind the scenes, extensive planning went into organizing the “Race for a Cause – Charity Challenge.” This included an exclusive filming day at the Perth Motorplex with John from Mad Bat Films. Fundraising efforts launched in July, featuring competitions, interviews, and robust media promotion leading up to the drag racing grand opening on October 28th. The event was a major success, with Breast Cancer Care WA, our chosen charity, receiving 60% of the $6615 in donations, and Careflight Australia receiving the remaining 40%. The event not only exceeded expectations but also made the cover of Fastlane magazine. Stay tuned for this to become an annual event.
While showcasing the car is a big part of what we do, this year saw a shift towards putting the spotlight on our passengers. The thrill of the ride was evident in the smiles and delighted shrieks, with some passengers even getting interviewed by track commentators. Each passenger received a personalized certificate, a video of their experience, and a copy of the timesheet.
Despite the focus on passenger rides, we never miss the Western Nationals over the March long weekend. This year it was an extra special and highly emotional event with the arrival of Terri’s husband (Warren) and daughter (Janine – and hubby Greg). Despite not advancing in the rounds, it was a day etched in our memories.
Our involvement in shows and displays continued to be a crowd-pleaser. From Perth Classic Car show, the Everything Chrysler Show, Motorvation 37 (where we walked away with a trophy) and our regular and popular attendance at the Wanneroo Agricultural Show, our car garnered admiration and accolades. Andy, both on and off the track, continued to inspire through magazine features, podcasts, school visits, and even a shopping centre book signing. Our creative merchandise, personally designed by Andy, has also continued to be a hit as a fundraising tool.
The off-season saw us embark on significant upgrades, transitioning from Pro Radial tyres to slicks for enhanced performance and safety. Mercedes front wheels were swapped for Weld Dragways, necessitating alignment, balance, and some expert tuning on the rear end. Testing at the track, guided by experts and our new crew member Shaz, showcased the Merc’s improved performance. Mick’s “in the shed” videos debuted during the off-season, adding a touch of humour with plenty of outtakes, especially the unforgettable “head bump reel.” [Sorry Mick.]
Beyond the shed activities, Andy’s engagements extended to schmoozing with local businesses, including attending the Wanneroo Business Awards as finalists for the Customer Service Excellence award. Her involvement in F1 in schools mentoring, sharing marketing and design skills through the online Canva course hosted by Motiv8, and connecting with the next generation underscores her commitment in not just the cause behind Therapy on Wheels, but also in promoting and encouraging connections into the motorsport community.
Health is always a major concern for the team, and we’ve seen our ups and downs this year. While Andy boasts another year NED (no evidence of disease) following her yearly tests, we are mourning the loss of Sue Corbett, a stalwart supporter of women in motorsport and also a Therapy on Wheels board member. Sadly she wasn’t the only motorsport person or friend who we had to wish farewell to this year, so we will take a few moments as the year ends to remember them all with a fond smile.
As we raise our glasses to bid farewell to this action-packed year, a heartfelt thank you goes out to our sponsors, volunteers, team, and fans. Your unwavering support allows us to create smiles and push the boundaries of what can be achieved. Here’s to an even more remarkable journey ahead!
Here’s to you from the Therapy on Wheels team.
