240km in 24 hours for Morocco

On Friday 8th September, a group of friends and I experienced the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco first-hand. The spectrum of thoughts and feelings that engulfed us during that moment remains challenging to comprehend and reconcile. Our return to London has also generated a complex mix of emotions — gratitude, sorrow, and a profound sense of our own good fortune.

Our time in Morocco afforded us the privilege to immerse ourselves in its vibrant, welcoming culture and revealed a strong sense of community, courage, and kindness among the people we encountered. It is simply heart-wrenching to contemplate how these individuals may have been affected.

Subsequent communication with those we met and hearing their stories have bought relief and despair. News reports have painted a grim picture of unimaginable loss, hardship and suffering.

Homes, livelihoods and loved ones have been lost.

Over 2,800 lives have been claimed by this disaster, and sadly, this number is expected to rise as hope diminishes for more survivors. According to the United Nations, 300,000 people have been affected.

Many anticipate that further tremors are inevitable. Consequently, communities remain perilously at risk, with urgent needs for food, water, medicine, and shelter.

In response to this crisis, the 14 of us have collectively decided to undertake a 24-hour relay challenge. Our objective is to run a total of 240 kilometres - symbolic of the size of Marrakesh. We acknowledge that the suffering endured by those affected is truly unfathomable. However, we hope this challenge will raise awareness and crucial funds for the communities facing dire circumstances thereby providing immediate relief for the ongoing tremors and aid in the long-term process of rebuilding lives.

We cannot emphasize enough the profound impact even the smallest act of kindness can have on those who have lost everything. A simple donation has the potential to change lives. Your support can truly make a difference.

Any funds raised will be donated directly to the Morocco Earthquake Appeal set up by the British Red Cross.

(https://donate.redcross.org.uk/appeal/morocco-earthquake-appeal)