Thank you for opening my justgiving page and I hope you will make a generous donation to help me raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and Afrikids.

Why am I doing this?  Last year my Mother died of cancer at 67.  The remaining months of her life were as comfortable and as happy as our family could make it.  Mum fought hard with the care and support of Macmillan, to see her 4th grandchild arrive (my 2nd daughter Keira).  4 weeks later she peacefully and comfortably, with Macmillan's care, passed away.

Who will benefit?    I wanted to do something to show my thanks to Macmillan, so I am joining a team of 20 business men and women, climbing North Africa's highest mountain, Mount Toubkal, 13700ft (4167m) in the Atlas Mountains with the aim of raising £150,000 to share between Macmillan and Afrikids.

My mum was passionate about the development, education and health of children.  Working all her life in an infant school and providing loving care for her grandchildren she believed that other children in 'poorer' less 'developed' nations of this world should receive the same education and heath as all children.  Afrikids is attempting to provide this and make a difference to vulnerable children in Northern Ghana, Africa.    www.afrikids.org/new/main.php

I personally know the staff and team at Afrikids and I am moved by their dedication, vision and drive to find a sustainable solution for these kids.  As a small 'award' winning charity, every penny helps.  Myself and my colleagues will be supporting 2 particular projects, 'Operation Smiles' and the building of an Ecolodge, both projects striving to drive sustainable benefits to the life of vulnerable children and the wider society in Northern Ghana.

What can you do?   Give as much as you possibly can - it really will make a difference!  Also, please forward this page to anyone you think might be interested in supporting me or these causes.   OR, if you can't give a cash donation, can you get hold of an item or gift that I can auction either online or at a Charity Ball we will be organising.  Perhaps you work for a retailer or manufacturer and they can give something?  I'm going to auction my house in the Peak District for a 'long weekend' break including Champagne!  What could you get for me to auction?  Give me a call if you can help on 07753 929504.

Should you feel passionately about giving to Macmillans Cancer Support rather than Afrikids, please go to www.justgiving.com/ianmackie1

Thank you for your support

Ian