Story
Ok. So its my first day at work for READ International. I arrive early, look keen, make tea, and generally try to give a good first impression.
Rob (my boss) mentions that we still have some spaces to Run for READ in the Royal Parks Half Marathon on the 11th October.
Still riding the wave of my first hour long run 9 days ago I blurt out “I’ll do it!” Everyone makes surprised, yet impressed faces and I feel rather smug because Im definitely the First Impression Queen,
About 5 minutes later I slyly ask Leila how long a half marathon is (yes, alright, apparently its common knowledge).
“13.5” comes the reply.
“Oh right, 13.5 kilometers, that’s not too bad”. I say, rashly.
“Actually its 13.5 miles”.
“AH…and that should take how long?”
“About 2 and a half hours”
I can no longer retain my cool and in an over-loud, panicky voice exclaim “2 and a half HOURS...?? OF SOLID RUNNING???”.
They look at me as if Im a moron.
Rob seems rather amused and says; “oh, did I mention that there’s a fundraising commitment of £600 aswell?” He seems to be enjoying it so, despite the little voice in my head saying “stop it, STOP IT! DON’T BE LURED IN!!” I say
“Actually that’s fine. I can probably raise more”.
The voice in my head just sighs.
SO here is my predicament: I have to be trained and fundraised to the tune of 13.5 miles and £600 in 11 weeks.
Thankfully I have some rather generous friends and family members (nudge, nudge) who will ensure my reputation will not lay slumped yards before the finish line and in turn I will ensure that my body will definitely make it through the white tape, although I cant guarantee what state it will be in.
Another thing to be thankful for is that all your money will go to a fantastic cause. I have volutneered and worked for READ for 3 years now and really believe we are doing a great job. Watch the video on the link just below the photo to see our work in action - see if you can spot me! - and take a look at our web page at www.readinternational.org.uk.
Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
So please dig deep and donate now. Wish me luck! PLEASE REMEMBER TO GIFT AID IF YOU PAY TAX!
Love,
Emma