By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
A well-known Boronia resident, Dr Pradbodh Malhotra has recently completed his third consecutive walk in support of the McGrath Foundation, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to raising both funds and awareness for breast cancer.
Over two months, he journeyed from the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), covering thousands of kilometres for a cause that’s close to his heart.
Dr Malhotra, who has lived in Boronia since 1989, began his journey with a simple but powerful aim – to give back to the community that has welcomed him.
“Australia has given me such a wonderful life, and I’ve always wanted to contribute in some way. After retiring from academia, this walk became my way of doing that,” he said.
The McGrath Foundation, which provides vital support to families affected by breast cancer and, more recently, all forms of cancer, was a cause close to Dr Malhotra’s heart. It was a perfect match for his efforts.
Dr Malhotra has raised over $123,000 for the McGrath Foundation through his three years of dedicated walking, with more donations continuing to pour in.
“It’s incredible how people support you along the way,” he said.
“It really shows how strong the community spirit is in Australia.”
The walk began on 3 November 2024 at the MCG and concluded at the SCG on 3 January 2025, after an exhausting but rewarding two months on the road.
This year’s route took him along the Gippsland coast, across the steep Clyde Mountain, and through Canberra – an especially challenging section.
But the terrain wasn’t the only obstacle Dr Malhotra faced.
He also had to navigate busy highways and roads with little shoulder space, often walking right next to heavy trucks and fast-moving traffic.
“It was scary at times, but you have to keep your focus,” he said.
While Dr Malhotra walked alone, his son joined him to drive the support van for the final weeks of the journey.
“My son has been my backbone in all of this, I’m so thankful for his help,” he said.
Along the way, Dr Malhotra met people whose stories moved him deeply, including a breast cancer survivor who shared how vital the McGrath Foundation’s nurses had been in her recovery.
“When I woke up after my surgery, a breast care nurse was holding my hand,” she told him.
“It made me feel like someone truly cared.”
For Dr Malhotra, the journey isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s about mental strength and the greater purpose of supporting others.
“It’s 70 to 80 per cent mental strength, not just physical,” he said.
“If you’re mentally motivated, the body will follow.”
While he’s not sure if he will continue this journey next year, Dr Malhotra leaves an inspiring legacy.
“I’ll keep doing this for as long as I can,” he said.
“But at my age, you’ve got to listen to your body.”
This year, Dr Malhotra’s fundraising total reached $123,501, with contributions still coming in.
To be part of this effort, visit: www.pinkisthecolour.com.au/fundraisers/PrabodhMalhotra
His efforts are part of a larger movement to support the McGrath Foundation, which is expanding its services to help people affected by all forms of cancer, not just breast cancer.
In a country where nearly one in two people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, this is more important than ever.
Dr Malhotra’s walk is a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and kindness.
Whether he’s walking through the streets of Boronia or on the highways of Australia, his message is clear.
“It’s about giving back, making a difference, and helping those in need,” he said.
As he prepares for his next adventure, a long walk in India, Dr Malhotra reflects on the impact his journey has had – both on himself and on the countless people he’s met along the way.
His story proves that even the smallest of actions can have a lasting, positive effect on the world around us.
