Even through cyberspace, I can hear you groaning...what is she fundraising for NOW?!  Given that this is my day job, your exasperation is not unexpected.  But, hey, this is special and I bet you'll sincerely want to help...

This October I am setting off to trek the Great Wall of China in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).  I'm spending 10 days trekking from Huangyaguan to Mutianyu.  Right now, that doesn't mean all that much to me aside from the fact that a.) it is a long way to walk, b.) the itinerary is peppered with words such as mountains, steep climbs, cliff face and (terrifyingly) "clinging precariously to the rock face", and c.) I have some serious training to do this summer.

A lot of you don't live in London and you'll be thinking, what's exactly is GOSH?  Well, it's the English speaking world's very first hospital for children - thank goodness it started a trend.  When it sprang to existence in 1852 it could only treat 10 kids at a time. Today it is one of the world's leading childrens' hospitals and with its partner, University College London, it is the largest research centre for childhood illnesses outside North America. 

So, why am I doing this to support GOSH?  Sure, there's no question that I am poised to have one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life thus far and I am naturally excited...but, also because I am fundraising for something really near and dear to my heart.  Those of you who've known me for a few years also know that I am dedicated to kids issues. You'll recall my internship in DC at The Children's Defence Fund or that I helped to organise a march on Washington to bring attention to children's issues or know that for the past two years I've been a 'Big Sister' to the lovely Lillie Jane here in London.

Supporting children in need strikes a personal cord with me as I am only too aware that if it weren't for some very big hearted adults (briefly in the form of my foster parents and then enduringly and lovingly in the form of my adoptive parents) when I was a kid, I would have been completely at sea in this world.  I wouldn't have had a smattering of the experiences that I have had and I'd also like to think that I've done some good to give back and that wouldn't have happened either.  So, deep in my heart I carry a fervent belief in helping the next generations just because it's the right thing to do and every single child deserves the best possible start in life.

If you think so too, why not give some some dosh to GOSH (note to Americans, dosh equals cash)?  You will be supporting research into effective treatements for complex illnesses, ensuring parents can sleep in wards alongside their kids when they are admitted and even ensuring that specially adapted toys can be provided to sick children.  Have no doubt that your support will go to a very, very worthy cause.

Thank you in advance - and I'll keep you posted along the way on the trek!