Hello!

I'm apparently running the Brighton Marathon in 2015. I've always wanted to run a marathon, and then my mother announces she is running the Marathon de Sables next year (an ultra-marathon in the Sahara). Whilst I will inevitably be upstaged by my ever-inspirational mother, I thought that I may as well have a crack at something myself. 

It was 2am when I finally booked my place, as I was sick of lamenting the days when I was fit, and my debit card was close to hand. For those who know me well, you will know how much I love a challenge, and this will be no exception (especially given my infamously competitive nature).

I am choosing to run for Amnesty International, which is probably the first charity I ever independently fundraised for, when I was 11 and I held a bake sale. 

They are an incredible organisation that represent so many of the values I hold dear. They fight for women's rights all over the planet, battling for girls to get an education and to live without fear of FGM or forced marriage; they strive for LGBTQ+ issues in a multitude of countries; and they generally stand up for humanity and human rights. 

They probably put it better themselves:

"We are Amnesty International UK. We work to protect men, women and children wherever justice, freedom, truth and dignity are denied...We investigate and expose abuses, educate and mobilise the public and help transform societies to create a safer, more just world." 

I would also like to take this opportunity to apologise to my wonderful roommate, Jossie who will be putting up with ridiculously early mornings and evenings, and my lovely boyfriend Josh, who will have to listen to me whinge endlessly about blisters and sore muscles. 

Please see if you can spare any loose change, and I will be eternally grateful, as will all the people you will be helping gain access to basic human rights.

Lots of love,

Marthe xxxxx