Greetings,
 
I've taken my personal fitness agenda to a new level - to achieve a lifetime dream, I'm going to run the London Marathon the 26th April 2009! Wooiii! 

I'll be raising money for the Bishop Simeon Trust www.bstrust.org - dual benefit! It supports people living in poverty in South Africa. By means of development and education projects, it helps the many who still suffer from the inequalities and injustices caused by Apartheid and its legacy, including those most severely affected by HIV and AIDS. Established in 1989, it is a registered charity with well-known patrons including Desmond Tutu, Michael Parkinson and Sir Trevor McDonald.

South Africa is one of the most unequal societies in the world, with 35% of South Africans living below the poverty line. On top of this, South Africans has the highest number of HIV+ people in the world - about 6 million, or one in for adults.  The disease is taking its toll, with the equivalent of the population of Coventry dying each year.  This has a devastating impact on the children left behind, who, the Bishop Simeon Trust is supporting.  There are currently almost 2 million orphans in, with multiple needs.

The London Marathon is a very important source of funds for the Bishop Simeon Trust's work. Every £1 will provide five HIV+ children with two nutritious meals a day in one of the pre-schools it funds. When I reach my minimum target of £1250, two more care workers can be funded for a whole year.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Bishop Simeon Trust gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now!  Also, come down to support me on the day!

One,

Gary