Andrew Samartsev
Andrew's Paris Half Marathon 2015 page
Fundraising for Naked Heart Foundation
Story
Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
My name is Andrey, and I'm a TV reporter. Recently, a friend asked me if I run. Without hesitation, I answered "yes", but at the time, I didn't know what that would come to mean. She asked me to travel to Paris and report on the charity half-marathon sponsored by the internationally recognized Naked Hearts Foundation. However, as with most things, there is a catch. I had to report from the perspective of a participant. The half-marathon is in March, which is right around the corner, and I have been preparing for it both physically and mentally. In order to make it on the team, I have to be in top form, get medically approved, and also come up with entry fee. For a long time I wanted to participate in a charity action but didn’t know where to begin. It seemed that there was never enough time or money to start something new. This offer came like a miracle, and I jumped at the chance. Proceeds from the Naked Hearts Foundation half-marathon will be used to open five fully equipped centers for children with autism in Russia. These centers will help minimize the effects of Sensory Processing Disorder, help improve social, verbal and non-verbal communication, reduce aggressiveness, and improve the overall emotional states of the children diagnosed with autism. Regretfully my country's government neglects the problems of children with autism, and such centers are non-existent at this time. The only help children with neurodevelopmental disorders receive is from their families and neighbors. Unfortunately, even when people have the best of intentions, they are often too unaware or ignorant to truly help. These disorders are difficult to understand and treat. The centers, with their fully-funded programs, professionals, and information would be able to make a real difference for the children suffering from these disorders and for their families. The Charity will surely raise enough to fund these centers, as long as enough people participate. I am acting as both a participant, and as the media, in hopes to bring more attention to this worthy cause. The only thing that is stopping me is the 1500 EURO participation fee. Sponsoring me can be a great first step towards helping these children get treatment and a better life.