On November 13th 2019 I am travelling to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to take part in The Great Ethiopian Run to help promote Ethiopiaid, on its 30th anniversary. I have been supporting this UK-based charity for over 20 years. The charity was founded 30 years ago by an Englishman, Sir Alec Reed, who had a desire to tackle the overwhelming poverty he found in Ethiopia. 

Over the years I have been profoundly moved by the stories I have learnt about, at the Fistula Hospital in Addis Ababa; the street feeding stations for orphan children; the Addis Ababa hospice for Cancer patients and many more. It is imperative that the lives of girls and women in Ethiopia are improved and empowered through education. I have been particularly moved by the plight of girls who drop out of school because of the lack of access to any type of sanitary provision. This charity is supporting a factory that makes sanitary products available for all, along with education to dispel myths and reduce the stigma behind menstruation.

I have my flights, accomodation and running gear but have neglected the most important part of all of this... raising some funds for Ethiopiaid. Slightly concerned I have yet to raise any money for this impending adventure - and concerned about running at altitude of Addis Ababa, when i’m yet to master running in the Fens below sea level - so I would be extremely grateful for anything you feel you can donate!

Jane