Ellie got involved in animal welfare initiatives in Athens when she found her dog, Artemis, as a puppy abandoned on the streets.
“It opened up a world of heartbreaking stories regarding the brutal reality of stray animals,” she said.
Named in honour of a stray dog that Ellie first came across living on her own on the streets of Athens who sadly didn’t make it, Ellie and sister Pep set up Facebook page Penny Marathon and have been raising funds through re-purposing items and running sponsored marathons, with the first fittingly taking place from Marathon to Athens, Greece.
“Legend has it that messenger Pheidippides ran from Marathon to Athens in 490BC, 42.1km, to announce the Greek victory over the Persians,” Ellie said.
“He then collapsed and died on the spot. It was certainly tough but it got us started on a fund-raising journey.”
Named runner up in the Inner West Council Citizen of the Year Awards for her advocacy in recycling and support of no-kill pet shelters, Ellie recently moved from Panania to Marrickville.
“I found my dog in Greece and he only speaks Greek,” she said with a laugh. “So Marrickville suits him better.”
“We are thrilled our work is helping hundreds of strays who have now been spayed, medically treated, fed and rehomed and will continue to fundraise as much as possible.”
To donate, go to pennymarathon.com.
