Cronin family’s fight against one-punch deaths goes global with London fundraiser

Pat Cronin’s family has worked tirelessly to prevent similar deaths after the teenager was killed in a one-punch attack in 2016. And now, their campaign to end violence has gone global.

Matt and Robyn Cronin launched the Patrick Cronin Foundation in honour of their 19-year-old son. Picture: Nicki Connolly

Ever since teen Pat Cronin was killed by a fatal coward punch, his family has worked to stop similar senseless deaths.

Now their efforts have gone global, with a fundraising event to support the foundation set up in Pat’s name reaching as far as London.

Pat was killed by a coward punch, thrown by Andrew William Lee, as he tried to drag mates from a pub brawl in 2016.

The Walk to the Valley fundraiser raises money to help the Pat Cronin Foundation’s education, awareness and research programs aimed at ending coward punch attacks.

Now in its fourth year, organisers are anticipating the event will attract 3000 participants, a new record up from 2000 last year, and raise more than $200,000.

Hundreds of people have already registered for the 8km walk between Heidelberg and Lower Plenty.

And for the first time, events will simultaneously be held in Perth and London.

Patrick Cronin died in a coward punch attack.

Killer coward-puncher Andrew Lee. Picture: Mark Stewart

Pat’s dad Matt Cronin said the work of the foundation had allowed it to present to more than 14,000 people at 100 schools, community groups, and sporting clubs this year.

“The way in which our supporters have turned out in big numbers has been heartwarming as we know that everyone who walks with us will have thought about Pat at some point on the day,” Mr Cronin said.

“By offering the Be Wise Walk to Anywhere option for the first time supporters from all over the world can join us from afar on the day and we look forward to seeing the social media posts.

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“Our Be Wise education and awareness programs have been rolled out in schools, community groups and sporting clubs this year and the feedback we have had from attendees has been excellent proving to us that our messages and Pat’s story are making a difference and empowering people to make changes through wise decisions.

“This year’s walk will be the biggest and best yet and we encourage everyone who wants to make a difference to join us as we walk to end the coward punch.”

The event will be held on Sunday, November 17 commencing at 10am

mycause.com.au/events/walktothevalley2019