I am taking part in the London Marathon 2024 to raise funds for MSF (Medecin sans Frontiers also known as Doctors without Borders).

MSF is an international humanitarian organisation providing medical care in more than 70 countries.

20 days left to the London Marathon...to what the training, pain, and joy has been building up to. I just wanted to take a moment to reflect on my journey so far and to thank the amazing people who have supported me, sponsored my charity, and encouraged me. Most of all, my wonderful family ❤️. They encouraged me when I felt it was impossible, massaged me when I felt broken, ran with me, laughed with me, and never complained when so much of my time is taken up by training.

I am not a runner - have never enjoyed it and always avoided it....but since Jan, I have run over 170 miles; over 50 of which have been while fasting 🏃‍♀️...since Jan I have done 30 hours of strength training....and why am I putting my body through this?

I want to be a role model for my children that they can be proud of. They can see me out of my comfort zone, pushing myself at my age....so that they can have the strength, determination, and resilience to cope with whatever life throws at them.

And, I chose to support MSF.....the news has been full of the problems the NHS is facing. We have the privilege that we can complain. We have the privilege to expect better. Last year, my father had triple heart bypass surgery, and at the same time, my son had emergency surgery for appendicitis. Alhamdolillah, both are well....we are privileged....but the majority of the world's population is not. They're in war-torn countries where MSF might be the only medical help they can get.... They're facing ebola which does not inflict the western world so does not get the financial support to find a cure like covid did....they are in Palestine, in Africa, in Yemen, in Ukraine, in Turkey, in Rohingya...in all the places where you and I are too afraid to go....but I can raise money for them....I can run.

By donating to my page and supporting my participation in the London Marathon 2024, you will be contributing to MSF's endeavours to respond at a moment’s notice!

Thank you!

Amber 🙏