Thank you for taking the time to read this.

We are all stirred by different causes and over the last year I have felt especially moved by the refugee crisis. I have recently decided to leave my job and life in London to figure out how little me might be able to lend a hand. Last year I asked for your help in collecting winter clothes for the displaced. This was in support of Samara's Aid Appeal which works to relieve suffering in the Middle East and elsewhere through the provision of humanitarian & medical aid.

This year I set myself the challenge to run a 1/2 marathon each month and have had an amazing time with friends from all walks of life. Each run I inevitably hit a wall & there were several things (incl jelly babies) that got me through. I forced myself to be thankful for the physical ability to run. I'd always taken my legs and limbs for granted before. I then reminded myself that this was my choice. It was a voluntary (fun) activity that would last a certain amount of time after which I could rest in a warm, safe pub with a roast & a pint. As I went through this process, I would compare this to those who I have met/ heard/ read about who didn't have a choice whether to run or not. They were forced to flee from all sorts of terrors and there probably wasn't going to be a medal at the finish line. Not even a welcome for some. When I felt like giving up, I remembered images of children carrying younger siblings along never-ending roads and this spurred me on each and every time. Their perseverance and hope gave me the boost I needed.

So the reason I'm writing...I'm now preparing for my 12th & final race and would love your support. The appeal needs care packages sent to families and the marginalised and I will be collecting the items needed and sending one for each race I've completed. They cost £50 each and £5 to ship. Please do help towards this if you can. Thank you :)

'Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us' Hebrews 12:1