Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

My running ...

After years of being a couch potato I started running in 2013.  I always find it tough, but I keep going because I'm a convert to the great health benefits of being outside doing exercise ... And I love the post race buzz!  A half marathon was never in my plan however, until I started supporting my friend and brilliant running coach Michelle to train, and suddenly found myself talked into tackling the unthinkable. 13.1 miles.

On Sunday 22 November I'll be hoping not to keel over and embarrass myself at the Norwich half marathon. And happily if I do Michelle will be there to pick me up and drive me home :D

Helwel Trust ... 

It's been a last minute decision to add fundraising into my half marathon plans because until recently I didn't believe I could run that far (still not sure!), but it could only ever be Helwel, a charity so close to my heart, that I would ask my friends to support as you support me. 

I first worked with Helwel on the ground in Zululand, South Africa in 2000 and I've been supporting, advising, fundraising and being a Trustee for them since. Helwel sponsored projects really help the neediest of families in the most deprived, depressed and drought ridden rural areas of Eastern S. Africa in many ways. 

- We support women to train as Pre-School teachers and care and educate the youngest South Africans

- we support small businesses and saving and loan shames so families can provide for their needs

- we support sustainable gardening so families do not need to go hungry.

- we feed and provide sanitation support to orphans and the elderly.

And much more.

So when I'm moaning and groaning (and shuffling) my way around those 13.1 miles of the gorgeous Norfolk countryside, I'll be thinking of all the families we can give a hand up to, if you can make a donation to Helwel in my name.

Thank you!

You can also read more about Helwel in these places:

This is a blog I wrote after my last visit, so it's old, but has some lovely stories about the real people that will benefit from a donation 

http://helweltrust.blogspot.co.uk

Or visit www.helweltrust.co.uk

Or on facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HelwelTrust/