Fundraising stories: running for Help 4 The Homeless
There are lots of ways to support H4TH and we are really grateful to everyone who chooses to fundraise for us. Some people choose to supoprt us while boosting their own fitness and wellbeing by running marathons, half marathons, or any long distance that challenges them.
Below is the story of one such supporter. Read on to find out where they ran, the distances involved and their reason for doing so.
Ismail Zoutat - competed in Endure24
“Over the weekend of 8-9 June, I faced one of the toughest challenges of my athletic life to support a charity close to my heart. Along with my best friends, Gabriel and Seth, we completed a 120-mile run within 24 hours.
Endure 24, held annually in Reading, is a running festival that attracts enthusiasts from far and wide. This year saw a huge turnout at a large country estate near Aldermaston, with tents stretching as far as the eye could see. At noon, the race began. I started the first 5-mile lap, enjoying the diverse scenery of forests, lakes, hills, and narrow troughs.
The first lap went as good as could be expected; the novelty of the track provided me with all the energy I needed. By lap 4, my initial energy had waned. I took breaks every 10 miles to refuel and rest, but it became clear that this was no small feat. The hardest moment came at lap 6, or mile 30. My legs felt like lead, my knees were on the verge of collapse, and my mind sought excuses to stop. I even considered tripping myself to avoid continuing.
Yet, I pushed through, motivated by the thought of those we were running for. Help4Homeless provides a beacon of hope to those enduring the harsh realities of life on the streets. While my physical pain was temporary, the struggles faced by the homeless are relentless and unforgiving. Each lap I ran brought with it an unyielding anguish. But whereas I could just stop, I knew the same option was not available to those on the streets.
Reflecting on this, I managed to complete 40 miles. My determination fuelled by the selfless work of Help4Homeless; tirelessly working to alleviate the suffering of the homeless, offering them not just aid, but hope and dignity.
Dignity is no small thing. We all deserve it, regardless of anything else. So, on behalf of Help4Homless I want to thank you for giving dignity to those who must never be forgotten. The donation page is still open. Your contributions, no matter how big or small, can and will make a significant impact on the lives of those in need. Please donate what you can to support this noble cause.
Click HERE to donate via Ismail’s JustGiving page.