Benjamin O'Brien

Hi everyone,

This year I’m running in Bridge to Brisbane to support a cause that truly saved my life—Teen Challenge QLD.

Before I came to Teen Challenge, my life was in ruins. I spent 20 years trapped in addiction, caught in a cycle of substance abuse, crime, broken relationships, and deep personal loss. I was a father who couldn’t be there for his children, a man without purpose, and on the brink of ending it all.

But then someone believed in me. They pointed me to Teen Challenge QLD, and that changed everything.

At their New Life Centre in Toowoomba, I found more than just rehabilitation—I found hope, structure, love, and the courage to change. Through the support of the staff in the program and the incredible people around me, I’ve been sober for over 11 years. I’ve rebuilt my life, found faith, become a husband, a present father of six and a grandfather. I have the amazing opportunity to lead all our Homelessness and Outreach Services, helping others rise from homelessness and addiction—just like I did.

Teen Challenge QLD didn’t just give me a second chance. They gave my children their dad back.

So now, I run for the countless others still stuck where I once was.

👉 You can support me in two powerful ways:

Donate – Every dollar helps Teen Challenge QLD continue changing lives. Your donation goes directly to helping people break free from addiction and find lasting hope.

Run with me! – If this story moves you and you want to make a tangible impact, join my team and run alongside me on race day. Whether you walk, jog, or sprint—we’ll be doing it for a cause that truly matters.

Your support truly means the world. After donating, you can also leave a message of encouragement on my page—I’d love to hear from you.

Together, we can bring hope to those who feel hopeless.

Thank you.