Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I have been running seriously now since 2008, but I've never really been tempted to run for charity  - until now.

A few months ago, some of the doctors at Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust where I work gave a presentation about a trip they had taken, in their own time, to go out to Pakistan and help the teachers, doctors, nurses, etc who had been on the frontline after the recent floods. Their story was both moving and inspirational, but also revealed the depth of need in many areas of Pakistan, that has only been emphasised by the floods.

Because of this, our organisation has been thinking of practical ways in which we can help, both collectively and individually, and we have decided to help raise money so that 10 Pakistani children (5 boys and 5 girld) affected by the floods can have an excellent education via the mission schools. Education is clearly their greatest hope. Who knows, one day one of the 10 children we help may train to be a doctor or a nurse and even work in mental health services in Pakistan.

Our chief executive, Lisa Rodrigues, kicked the fundraising effort off in February 2011 by giving up her car for the whole of that month and travelling everywhere (around 1000 miles) by bus, train, bicycle and on foot. She managed to raise about £5000 and I know that other colleagues are doing and plannng their own activities.

For me, I am asking people to sponsor me in competing at the second ever Brighton Marathon on 10 April 2011. Training has gone well, and, touch wood, the body has held together. I am aiming for a time of around 3 hours 35 minutes, although much will depend on weather conditions on the day etc.

The Brighton Marathon, which takes place a week before London, has very quickly gained a reputation not only as a great alternative to its better known big brother, but a well supported, well organised and sought after race in its own right. So for those of you who are local, or would like to come down for the day, as well as putting your hand in your pocket, do come out and support me and the thousands of other mad souls pounding the streets of this cute, laid back city. As in the picture, I'll be running under the colours of the Worthing Striders.

Thank you very much

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