Update: I did it guys! Not only did I complete, but I broke my personal record despite my dodgy knee. Thank you for all your support, please continue to donate and watch this space.

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Dear Friends and Family,

On the 2nd of November, I shall attempt to run the NYC Marathon.

I have been lucky to have been picked to do this via the ballot system. What does this mean? I'm one of the few applicants to be given a guaranteed place without having the need to go via a charity etc. (Apparently, I tick a lot of minority boxes and help their quota. Go figure).

As a result, I have decided to run on behalf of something I feel passionate about and I know needs our support; The Welbodi Partnership. A magnificent venture that is close to my heart, not only because of its mission, but the people who direct the project.

www.welbodipartnership.org

The Welbodi Partnership was established to support the provision of paediatric care in Sierra Leone, where child health statistics are the worst in the world. Currently, more than a quarter of Sierra Leonean children die before their fifth birthday, mainly to preventable and treatable illnesses such as pneumonia, diarrhoea and malaria. The Welbodi Partnership aims to give these children a better chance.

Now, as I don't have a target to reach per se, it makes it more difficult for me to ask you to be generous. No matter how much or little you have, please reach deep into your pockets and give. The above target is what the partnership needs to raise to set up a high-dependency unit for the sickest kids and provide care to them free of charge.

This project means a lot to me as a west African who grew up in the region and knows the extent and severity of the situation. I look forward to keeping you posted and to having your support, as always.

With love,
Tarek