My 29th birthday is coming up on 11 May, and this year I want to do something that feels meaningful in the face of the devastation we witness unfolding every day in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, Sudan and beyond.

I’ll be running the Hackney Half Marathon on 17 May to raise funds for War Child, an organisation that supports children whose lives have been torn apart by conflict, helping them process trauma, return to education, and find some sense of safety again.

I know a single run won’t change the reality of war, but it feels important to use this moment, and the privilege of celebrating a birthday, to try and support those who are less fortunate. So instead of gifts or cards, I would really love if you could consider making a donation.

Any amount, big or small, truly makes a difference and would mean so much to me 💛

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War Child UK is the only specialist charity for children affected by conflict. For three decades we've been driven by a single goal for no child's life to be torn apart by war.

We aim to reach children as early as possible when conflict breaks out and stay to support them through their recovery keeping them safe, helping them learn and cope with their experiences, and equipping them with skills for the future. We understand children's needs, respect their rights, and put them at the centre of the solution.

We campaign for changes to policies and practices to support children in conflict, and work with children and young people themselves to demand their rights.

Together with our partners we deliver our vital, life-saving work in countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East, Europe and Latin America.

Our incredible team of runners are taking on the Hackney Half to raise vital funds!