Karl Waddell and his Run for River mates will take part in the festival to help fund research into sudden infant death syndrome.

Waddell lost his run River to SIDS on November 4, 2011. River was one of 70 children who die every year in Australia from the syndrome.

A further 140 deaths go undiagnosed, so the figure could be even higher.

In just 15 months, the Run for River charity has raised more than $120,000 for its research partner, the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health.

“I get goosebumps as I give you that figure,” Waddell said.

Waddell isn’t sure if he can take part in person this year.

He ran his first half-marathon last year, but didn’t finish the race.

But it wasn’t for want of trying. Waddell collapsed around the 18km mark.

“My blood glucose was through the floor,” he said.

“I was going at it too hard, and was stupid about it.

“But it’s all a learning curve.”

But whatever he goes through, it’s all worth it for the cause.

Research into the syndrome has come a long way, but there’s still a way to go.

The charity’s aim is to get a researcher to Boston, in the US, for 12 months.

That’s where the world-leading experts are located.

Anyone who’s running at the festival can be a part of the fundraising effort.

You can visit www.riversgift.com, or phone Waddell on 0488 220 379.

You can also set up an Everyday Hero page, sign up and start raising money.

Head to http://www.everydayhero.com.au/port_macquarie_running_festival and use the password River128.