<p class="MsoNormal">In February 2012 I am planning to visit the Saharawi refugee camps in Algeria to run a half marathon! As some of you will know, I will be finishing my studies in Drama Therapy, and the opportunity has come up to join a fantastic project. The Saharawi are an indigenous people, population c.200,000 who have been living in refugee camps ever since their land of Western Sahara was occupied by Morocco in 1975.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Some fellow drama therapists and I will be spending 10 days with the Saharawi in three main areas: the special needs school, the landmine victim centre and the camps prison. Living in exile has left these people in desperate need, and our role will be to provide psychological intervention, which we hope will improve the outcomes of this forgotten people. Please view the Sandblast charity site for more details.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I need to raise &pound;700 to fund the trip, so hopefully you can sponsor me to do the half marathon which I think will be my biggest challenge! Any funds raised in excess of this will provide further support to this excellent cause.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Once you donate, they&rsquo;ll send your money directly to Sandblast and please make sure you claim Gift Aid. Many Thanks for your donation.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal">~Karen x</p>