Hi my name is Shân, and I have chosen to run for Mercy. I felt sick to my stomach when I first read Becky’s post about this 3 year olds tragic story, which sadly is not an isolated issue. Mercy was found raped and killed at a brick factory near to One By One's offices in South Asia.

One By One is determined that no other child will have to go through what Mercy had to go through, and they hope to open a network of Mercy Centres across the world, the first being in Uganda.

So back in January of this year, I decided that I wanted to start a couch to 5k to start the year well, as I will also be turning 40, and not only wanted to improve my health, for myself, but also my lovely family.

Currently I have completed 7 out of the 9 week program (I have had to revisit some of these weeks as proper exercise has not been a priority to me for sometime!)

To say it has not been easy is a bit of an understatement, but I am so proud to be joining the rest of the runners, and make this effort count for something so important!

So ‘come what May’ I, as part of a wider team, will be helping to fundraise, and make a much needed difference by completing a 20k challenge over the month of May, this will be split into 4 smaller 5k challengers over the month.

I have decided to split this up as I struggle with back problems, and feel this is a more sensible way of doing things. The money raised will go towards opening up a new residential centre for survivors of human trafficking.

I had the privilege of joining Becky and co. to the Kings medical project in Kenya, back in 2018, and was able to see the difference that is being made in the lives of many children, and families. Africa has held a special place in my heart ever since, so when she asked, I was so honoured to support her in this venture.

Thank you for reading my story. I hope it will inspire you to get involved. I/We are so grateful for you to stand with us in any way you can to join the good fight, any gift large or small is greatly appreciated. Our efforts together will help to make the difference we want to see.

One By One's vision to end exploitation across the world. Check out www.onebyone.org for more information.