Dear Friends,

We are reaching out to you today with an urgent appeal for your support. On June 16, 2024, we will be participating in the Southampton Running Festival 10K to raise funds for Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).

This is a cause close to our hearts and together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Yasmin's family were forced to leave their home during the Nakba in 1948 and become refugees in neighbouring Lebanon. Charities such as MAP and UNRWA were essential for the survival of her family.

MAP is a charity that works for the health and dignity of Palestinians living under occupation and as refugees. It provides immediate and essential medical aid, support and access to vital, life-saving healthcare services to those in need.

The current humanitarian catastrophe and collective punishment of Gaza's population has internally displaced almost 1.9 million Palestinians, killed more than 26,422 of whom 70% are children and women, and wounded 65,087 others (28/01/2024).

Depriving 2.3 million Palestinians of water, food, fuel, medicine and medical supplies, against a backdrop of 17 years of Israeli blockade has left 80% of Gazans facing starvation, disease and serious health complications.

Pregnant women are not receiving adequate nutrition and healthcare and are giving birth in unsanitary conditions without pain relief or anaesthesia. Many are dying as a consequence.

Children are suffering severe malnutrition, with a whole generation at risk of stunted growth, causing irreparable physical and cognitive impairments. More than 10 children per day on average lose one or both of their legs and are amputated without anaesthesia.

More than 150 medical staff, 89 academics and 106 journalists have been targeted and killed over the last 4 months. Half of Gaza’s homes and 378 educational institutions have been damaged or destroyed.

None of Gaza’s 36 hospitals are fully functional, according to the WHO. Only 15 remain open with severely limited services and are running at 200 percent capacity. Severe shortages and depleted staff mean people are dying slowly, often being treated and operated on whilst lying on the floor, with no dignity and in excruciating pain.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered provisional measures on January 26, 2024 requiring Israel to prevent genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, enable the provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance. However, the rulings of the ICJ have been ignored.

The entire infrastructure in Gaza has been decimated and the healthcare system has collapsed. The children and people of Gaza are facing the most horrific, life changing events and this is why we are asking for your help today.

Our goal is to raise £20,000 to support MAP in their life-saving work. We both hope to raise £1000 each, for every kilometre we run. Every donation counts, no matter how big or small.

Your donations will go directly towards providing medical supplies, emergency care, and long-term support. Together, we can bring hope and healing to those who need it most.

Thank you for your generosity and compassion.

Shmma and Yasmin