The Ripple Effect: Rising from a Tragic Chain of Events | Maddie Mortimer

Raising two daughters with his wife in a happy home, Warren Gunns never could’ve predicted the devastating chain of events that would befall his family. His eldest, Maddie was 13 years old when she was sexually assaulted on a holiday, a trauma that led to a life-threatening eating disorder, which put pressure on her parents relationship.  Maddie had a special bond with her dad, who would’ve been 63 this August if he hadn’t taken his life…

Desperate to escape the pain, Maddie turned to meth to cope; with the drug sweeping her up in an addiction that nearly took everything. 

This episode shows how the ripple effects of suicide can forever alter the lives of those left behind in ways you’d never expect.  In the face of soul crushing hardship, Maddie’s become a great mum, business owner, marathon runner, and a shining example that it’s never too late to turn your life around.

In May 2025, she’s running 21 half marathons in 21 days to mark the 10 year anniversary of her dad’s passing.  Partnering with The Outback Mind Foundation, Maddie’s ‘Steps 4 Strength’ campaign aims to raise 210k to fund community mental health initiatives and a documentary. This is Maddie Mortimer’s story…

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You can support Maddie's cause here: https://donorbox.org/steps4strength