Those who know me well will remember I said I would never run another marathon after the London 2005. However, 17 years later, I have been inspired by my dear friend Carwyn  (Hope Health Action/HHA founder) who ran 2 marathons last year to mark what would have been his son Noah's second birthday if he had not tragically passed away in 2019. On 10th April 2022, I will be running the Brighton marathon (26.2 miles) alongside Carwyn and other HHA supporters. 

The money raised will contribute to Noah's Memorial fund, and will support HHA's maternity and neonatal projects in Haiti, including a new larger and more family centred neonatal unit we have dreamt of for years. 

This is my 10th year being an HHA trustee; 9 years ago I brought over the first CPAP machine- I still remember that trip when I took nothing with me because the CPAP took up all my baggage allowance! Now, we have at least 2 functioning CPAP machines, and fewer babies are dying. On one of my other trips, I saw my first case of severe kernicterus due to the lack of lab facilities and unreliable energy supply. We introduced a hand-held bilirubinometer and have seen a dramatic reduction in kernicterus and resulting profound disability. I have memories of being called in the night to a pitch black hospital when the generator fails, and running to the neonatal unit to ensure babies still received oxygen. We have since invested in a new solar energy system for the hospital. With funding and support, we CAN make positive changes. 

The pandemic has exposed the stark inequality across the world, and the gap between richer and poorer countries only widens. Please consider supporting our maternity and neonatal programmes so we can provide a healthy start in life for children in Haiti, and ensure no woman dies from childbirth. Your support, however small, will help me get through the gruelling and painful training, and keep me going to the finish line! 

Thank you