On the right track: Clare Beatson is hoping to give something back to children's charity TLC for Kids. Picture: Matthew Furneaux
CLARE Beatson wanted to give back to the charity that helped her when she was growing up.
The 27-year-old, who has cystic fibrosis, slipped through the cracks of the health system and wasn't diagnosed with the disease until she was two-and-a-half.
It was TLC for Kids, a charity she now works for, that helped her through the rough times.
The non-profit organisation took her to Queensland for four days to visit theme parks and bought her a laptop while she was a patient so she had access to friends via social media.
Every year, TLC for Kids helps an average of 500,000 children in hospital.
"When I met Tim Conolan [TLC for Kids chief executive] 14 years ago he went above and beyond for me," Ms Beatson said.
"I had days out while I was receiving treatment, like trips to [TV show] Rove . They took me on a trip of a lifetime to Queensland. I kept in contact with them and formed a friendship."
This year Ms Beatson was given a job at the organisation, which on Friday is holding a 'Tracky Dack Day' when people are encouraged to wear track pants to work or school for a donation.
The event was first run last year and raised $40,000.
"We came up with the idea because children in hospital are encouraged to get out of their pyjamas, hop out of bed and put their trackies on. We're encouraging local schools and businesses to have a casual clothes day and help us raise funds."
Details: tlcforkids.org.au