This feels like the space where I should give you some inspiring story. Something along the lines of how the NSPCC has been a huge influential force in my life or how I’m dedicating my performance in the marathon to an important figure in my past. 

Well, I'm afraid I don’t have one of those for you, really I’m just trying to be better and do some good in the world. But, I think that’s what I want to be the main takeaway from this for myself and others. That you don’t need some big, life changing watershed moment to fuel you to do good, you just need to want to and take the step out of your comfort zone (plus however many more steps this blasted race will take me).     

But enough about me, that’s not important. What’s important is the work done by the NSPCC and why they need our support. The NSPCC stands up for those who can’t stand up for themselves, working to protect children from the abuse and neglect that runs rampant every single day. Not only does abuse deprive children of their precious years of childhood but more often than not it robs them of the opportunity to find success in later life. With previously abused children often having stunted emotional development, damaging their ability to build relationships and handle life’s stresses and being more likely to fall into addiction or criminal behaviour. 

So just where will your money go? 

Well the NSPCC covers a huge range of different forms of abuse in their support, from child trafficking, to domestic abuse, to female genital mutilation and sexual abuse (you can find the full list here). When you donate to NSPCC 80% of your donation goes directly towards supporting victims of abuse and funding projects to help bring it to an end. This could be to fund therapy services and facilities to help previous victims, supporting projects to help children recognise and escape abuse or helping research and training to find the best ways to prevent abuse. 

I don’t think it’s news to anyone that things are tough right now financially. But I don’t think I can even begin to say how appreciative I would be if you are able to spare some money to donate towards this amazing cause and how much it will motivate me when I take on this ridiculous challenge. And if you could spare the time to come and watch on Sunday April 23rd 2023 that might mean even more. 

Until then, I’ve got some serious work to do. Thank you for your support. 

-Sam