Marcello and Hilly are about to run the toughest footrace on Earth – the legendary and gruelling Marathon des Sables.

Running six days over 250 kms (156 miles) in one of the world’s most inhospitable environments, the Sahara Desert, carrying everything they need to survive on their backs. It’s said to be the ultimate challenge – mentally and physically – an experience like no other.

Marcello and Hilly are dedicating their ultra-marathon to raise urgent funds to protect children in Ukraine.

Conflict is escalating in Ukraine, putting millions of children and their families in immediate danger.More than half a million children in Ukraine are already affected as the conflict in the east of the country enters its eighth year. Homes, schools, water supplies and hospitals are damaged. Landmines pose a major threat to childrens lives.UNICEF is especially concerned for the safety and wellbeing of children who have become separated from their families.UNICEF has been working around the clock to keep children safe since this conflict began eight years ago. We are helping to make sure that child health and protection services are sustained and families have clean water and nutritious food.Please donate to help protect children in Ukraine.