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
The Garden House Hospice is situated in Letchworth, Herts. It offers hospice care and support to patients with a terminal diagnosis. Garden House is dependant on voluntary donations and fundraising activities to raise in excess of £1 million per year in order to maintain the current level of services.
Have a look at: http://www.ghhospice.co.uk
So why this charity?
My aunt, Sylvia, was diagnosed with a brain tumour, and last year spent her remaining weeks at Garden House as she bravely fought the illness. Throughout her stay, she was wonderfully looked after in comfortable surroundings. In what was a terrible time for our family, we'll never forget the care and support that the hospice provided. I hope I can raise money that will contribute towards them continuing to provide the same excellent service and helping others there.
Want to give to a national charity, maybe?
Maybe this charity is not your thing, or you're not 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/AndyMalesNYC2010DreamsComeTrue
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 UK 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.
