Dear Friends,

Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

On 15 February, Mathias and I will be running the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon and we would be very grateful for any of your hard earned money that you can spare to sponsor us for a very worthy cause that is so important to my family.

About nine years ago, my Uncle, Colin, an award-winning film and television editor, suffered a stroke. He was only in his 40’s at the time and was, until then, completely fit and healthy. Since then, Colin has been affected by aphasia, a condition that drastically affects his speech and also has reduced mobility down one side of his body.

The charity that we are raising money for, Connect - the Communication Disability Network have been invaluable to Colin's rehabilitation and recovery since his stroke. They provide a great source of support and advice for Colin and his family. 

We would really love to be able to give something back to Connect for all their brilliant work with people with aphasia and communication disabilities. My cousins and my sister have already raised a great amount of money for them, so now it is my turn (and I have roped Mathias in too!) All the money raised will also be in memory of Colin’s wife, Julie.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - we raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Please donate however much or little you can spare to this cause. We realise that everyone is a bit broke at time of year but even a few dirhams/pounds/dollars/euro/drachma, whatever your currency may be, will make a difference and give us a bit of motivation to get down the gym and train harder. I can assure you that the money will do inspirational things for some truly inspirational people.

 Lots of Love,

Lauren and Mathias xxxxxxx