This weekend, 60,000 runners will be taking on the Great North Run - a 13.1-mile route from Newcastle to South Shields and the world's biggest and best half marathon!
Five of these runners are tackling this challenge in aid of Open Arms - each with their own special connection to Malawi.
Join us in wishing them all the best for this epic adventure and be inspired by their motivation to make a difference!
Former Lancing College pupils Rosie, Indie and Tallulah will be running together on Sunday, with special memories of their school trip to Open Arms Infant Home in July 2022:
Rosie shared, "We visited Open Arms in both Blantyre and Mangochi with our school, Lancing College. I was truly touched by the work of the organisation and was incredibly grateful of the warm welcome we were given by such a kind team of staff and children. I would therefore be delighted and so proud to continue support of and connections with such an impactful organisation through this run."
Indie, who completed a half marathon with Rosie to raise money for the Lancing expedition, said their month in Malawi was "truly an incredible experience and one that has left a meaningful imprint."
Tallulah feels that completing the Great North Run in aid of Open Arms will be the perfect full circle for this chapter of her life. She says, "Ever since hearing of Lancing College's expedition to Malawi when I was 9, I knew it was an incredible country on my bucket list of places to go and was an influential factor in my decision to go to the school. Over my 5 years there, I learned more of the warm heart of Malawi and Open Arms specifically, and was able to go on the 40th expedition there in 2022!
To say that Open Arms changed my life is an understatement. I experienced first hand the remarkable care and generosity of the women who give so much everyday to care for these children, particularly by staying away from their family for weeks at a time during the pandemic. These kids were curious and happy, despite having almost everything against them... I feel passionately about wanting to help them all, as they helped me so much... I will continue to support Open Arms for the rest of my life."
All the best to this amazing trio of young ladies!
Avid runner Gareth has completed several challenges for Open Arms in the past and is kindly still going the extra mile to help improve the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children in Malawi. Thank you for all you've raised so far Gareth and good luck!
Show your support!If you feel inspired to take on a challenge or project to raise awareness and support for the work of Open Arms, we'd love to hear from you!
Check out our fundraising page or get in touch on 01423 530129 or hello@openarmsmalawi.org to connect with a member of our friendly team!
“I lived in Malawi as a young child and look forward to fundraising in solidarity with Malawian children whose life opportunities are different to my own. I look forward to your support!” - Josie
Your donation will help children in Malawi grow up healthy with the love of a family
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