I am Gwen Williams and on Sunday I ran the London Marathon for Solace Women's Aid!!
It was a wonderful day and the good wishes and generosity of everyone who has sponsored me have helped to make the 16 weeks of training and the marathon itself an experience I shall never forget. If there is anyone out there who would still like to sponsor me it is definitely not too late. I did it in 5 hours 39 minutes including a stop to have my blistered feet checked. My target was 5.30 to 6.0 hours so I am really pleased with my time and although I am still a bit stiff and my legs ache I feel great.
Solace works with women and children in London who are affected by domestic and sexual violence. 25% of women in England and Wales will experience domestic violence at some point in their lives and London has particularly high rates. In 2009, Solace provided support for 3,500 women and children and, with your help, they can support more in 2010.
Solace provides an extensive range of services including safe housing, advice and legal support, counselling and specialist support for children who are often traumatised by what they have seen. Public Sector cuts mean Solace needs funds more than ever to keep helping women and children who are fleeing for their lives:
£5 could buy a toy for a child who has had to leave everything behind.
£20 could buy an emergency pack (toiletries and food ) for a family who have fled DV
£50 could buy food, nappies and essential items for a woman and a child in a refuge.
£100 could buy six counselling sessions for a woman traumatised by her experiences of violence.
I have worked with Solace for 15 years and have seen how small steps can change lives.
Please donate now and make a difference
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Thank you very much. Diolch yn fawr.
Gwen