Female Genital Mutilation, (FGM), has always struck me as a diabolical practice no matter what the reasons. Over the years I have struggled to find a constructive way to contribute in the fight against it. But recently I have met a most remarkable lady, Dr. Ann-Marie Wilson, who founded, and is the Executive Director of an anti-FGM charity called, 28TooMany.

https://www.28toomany.org

For many years Ann-Marie has been intensely involved in her fight against FGM within the 28 nations of Africa where FGM is practised, and across the diaspora worldwide. The works which 28TooMany concentrate on are three-fold; collating and interpreting statistical data, influencing legislation and policy, and distributing advocacy materials and training tools at community levels. In order to facilitate the completion of the 28TooMany's latest research report, Ann-Marie is aiming to raise £14,000.....and more if possible of course.

To help raise these funds, Ann-Marie has a very interesting marathon event planned for Sunday June 24th, which I feel that I can be supportive in joining.

Due to Ann-Marie's battle with cancer, she is mostly wheelchair bound at present. As a consequence, she has decided to do a 28 mile marathon in London, which consists of her supporters committing to pushing her in her wheelchair, one mile each. For this honour, supporters are asked to raise £500 each.

I have foolishly committed to pushing Ann-Marie on an uphill mile at some point, (probably Highgate Hill!!), videoing as much of the event as possible, and being very much on call for the last 10 miles. The wheelchair is not electric!!

The route that Ann-Marie has planned will start in High Barnet, go into Central London and then back up to High Barnet. Yikes! The last 10 miles contains a number of lovely inclines!

All donations will go directly to 28TooMany to keep up their amazingly effective good work against this completely horrendous practise.

So please do help support this great cause and many many thanks for any donations given!!

Phil