I'm almost there! I mean, I will set foot on Cambodian soil on Saturday October 28th, but I'm not out of the woods just yet! The support I've received has been incredible to say the least! But I still need to keep on with the training and raising the funds! I have put down £500 of my own money to pay for my plane ticket, so please help me raise the rest--the £2,500 for the children ICT works with! Just know that the money will not only go towards the children, but it will also open more opportunities for ICT to take on new projects (when old ones are sustained and established).

The Real Deal:

October 27-November 5, 2006 is going to be an important week for me. Why? Because during 5 of those days I will be in Cambodia cycling 446 km (277 miles) starting from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville. Again WHY? ICT is one of the few non-governmental organisations (NGO) who puts on a trek such as this where you are actually able to visit ICT supported partner organisations (and see the effects of the donations). For example, the last day we will be able to visit the M’lop Tapang programme (www.mloptapang.org) an NGO that gives displaced children access to learning tools and resources, and by providing physical security, education, counselling and protection from abuse. 

Cambodia is where I was born, it’s a war-torn country that is going through a very slow re-building process, and even with all the poverty around, I am constantly amazed by the beauty of the country and it's people. I love it! For me, if I have a chance to give back (in any size or form) then I will--ICT has provided this amazing opportunity and I am ready to accept the challenge! I have even convinced my local newspaper to do an article on my trek!

How can YOU help?
A. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: International Childcare Trust will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you. Here are some numbers to crunch:

£10 will provide 2 children with food for one month

£50 will provide a 6 month training course in a marketable skill for a young person to provide for themselves

£100 will provide a child's schooling for one year.

B. Why you should sponsor me:
1. I love children and I can't wait to see the kids that I am helping! I know their names and faces 'cause I help out with ICT's Child Sponsorship programme. I've been an intern for ICT since February and truly believe in the programmes that we provide for these children.
2. I am getting myself into shape by running 3-4 times a week, just finsihed a 14K in the Lake District in October with some mates; going to the gym at least three times a week...to lift weights, swim, and kickbox--it also helps that I have a cute instructor :) (this is what I call motivation!); cycling on a regular basis (to work and outside of London); and sucessfully cutting back sweets (fruit taste better during the summer anyways)! I'm seriously serious about this!
3. I love a challenge!
4. If you sponsor me, your name will appear on the back of a t-shirt that I will create. So your donation will always be remembered. Also I can look back at this event and see who made this mission...possible!
5. I'll be your BFF (best friend forever). :)

So please sponsor me! I will be forever grateful, and please know that you are helping children who don't have much, but appreciate anything and everything! Ride on! Cheers!

-Love you all!

Sokphal