Why I'm passionate about gearing up for this year's Ride For Sick Kids

Kids and hospitals.

Unfortunately, it's a situation we've all been in - either experiencing it first-hand as a child or as a worried parent desperately seeking answers.

It is a stressful period for all involved and a time when support is paramount, which is why the Ronald McDonald House is so crucial to providing a safe and loving environment as uncertainty takes over.

It's also why I'm so passionate about this charity and taking part in this year's Ride for Sick Kids.

This year the event will mark its 10th anniversary, with the goal of raising more than $500,000 to add to the already $2.5 million raised.

The funds go to providing accommodation, meals and learning programs to regional West Australian children and their families.

If being ill isn't bad enough, being away from home and in an unfamiliar setting is daunting.

Today, around 30 riders will embark on the four-day ride starts in Collie, taking in the WA's south-west coastal cities and town, before ending in Perth.

It's a beautiful piece of our State, but there's no doubting the sensational landscape and scenery will quickly be replaced by full body aches.

There's little doubting the 510km challenge will be just that, but the physical pain endured is nothing on what these families go through and it's well worth the benefit for improving the lives of children, no matter how small it may be.

Training for the event has been a grind in itself and only heightened the importance of keeping sound physical and mental health.

It's reinforced just how lucky I am to have full health and why I'm motivated to make a difference to others less fortunate.

You can find Paddy's fundraising page here.