Once was a challenge.
Twice was unnecessary.
Three times is just madness!
Yes, after my London '98 and NYC '08 exploits I've decided to do New York again for my third marathon. Am I running for the glory and the achievement? Well, I'd be lying if I said no, but I'm also running for two great charities that I'd love to raise a lot of money for.
I run. I struggle. I go through agonising pain. I mentally shut down. I put myself through months of training. I drag myself round the course when every fibre of my body screams "enough!" All I ask is a bit of your hard-earned cash to bring a bit of joy to people who know what real, unavoidable pain is.
The charity
Dreams Come True is the charity that I've run for before. They bring joy to terminally and seriously ill children by literally making their wishes come true, be it a trip to a faraway place, meeting their sporting heroes or swimming with dolphins. The difference it can make to the kids and the families is unmeasurable.
Have a look at: http://www.dctc.org.uk/
So why this charity?
I've never had to battle a serious illness or be brave about anything. I had a wonderful childhood, did many things, ran about without a care. These kids not only are often restricted in even the basics of childhood, but for many, have only a limited time left. If I can do something to provide funds for someone to give them unbound joy and their families happy memories, then I'm gonna do it.
Want to give to a more local charity, maybe?
Maybe this charity is not your thing, or you want something local. That's fine - I'm actually running for two charities this time, so feel free to check out a local one on my other page:
http://www.justgiving.com/AndyMalesNYC2010GardenHouse
Need more incentive?
Ok, how about I add various embarrassing photos of me the more money I raise?!
For every £200 I raise between these two charities I will add a photo of me here that although won't show me in my best light, will bound to raise a smile.
So who's with me? Who wants to help a great charity and see silly photos of me?
The blog
If you want to view my progress, then I'm writing a blog on the t'interweb here. Please drop by and have a gander, check how I'm doing and even leave a comment or two.
The boring stuff...
Donating through JustGiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: the charity gets your money faster (100% of the donation by the end of the week!) and, if you’re a taxpayer, Gift Aid will be added later. A £10 donation will result in nearly £12 going to the charity!
Finally, thank you so much for coming here and sponsoring me; I really appreciate your support.
