Many thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

It's been almost 12 years since I did my last marathon (and at the time...the last one), but learning more about the work the Vodafone Foundation does around the world inspired me to put on my shoes for one last time! By using mobile technology, the projects include helping to reduce HIV in Lesotho where 1 in 4 are diagnosed with HIV, setting up instant schools in Africa and disaster relief at the recent earthquake in Italy. There are also many local projects in each country. In Czech Republic, I've seen first hand how the local foundation benefits local charities, including supporting mental health, the blind and a mobile application for emergencies.

Marathon training is tougher than I remember...the weather far worse (heavy rain in UK, snow & -10 degrees in Prague), but remembering the people the charity helps who are less fortunate is very humbling and keeps the motivation.

As many of you know, I undertook a significant personal challenge to run & row around the world (18,296 miles - inspired by Mark Beaumont who cycled around the world in a record breaking 194 days in 2008) & having now run/rowed in over 30 countries, I'm currently less than 2,000 miles away from this goal! This charitable cause is a fitting way for me to also raise money during this epic personal journey.

One important point I wanted to share. Vodafone Foundation matches the fundraising, so all donations are much appreciated. Also, I've entered the Malta Marathon personally, so I can maximise the money raised for the good causes. 

Thank you very much!

James 

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.