On Sunday Bank holiday (24th August), Mark crossed the finish line — pushing through to 3rd place with resilience and heart. His determination reminds us of the strength shown every day by the Palestinian people and the doctors on the ground treating patients under unimaginable conditions despite being deliberately targeted by Israeli forces. We saw the murder of more journalists and rescue workers this weekend live-streamed on our phones.

As we celebrate Mark’s achievement, let’s also continue to channel that energy into supporting those who need it most. Please keep donating to MAP (Medical Aid for Palestinians) and stand with the people of Gaza Donation link in bio.

Mark took on this extraordinary test of endurance: paddling 200 kilometres solo along the entire non-tidal River Thames, in the Thames 200 Ultra Challenge.

But this isn’t just a feat of physical strength.

It’s an act of solidarity. A call to conscience.

Mark did this to raise critical medical aid for Palestinians — where hospitals are under fire, doctors operate without supplies, and children are treated on bloodied floors with no anaesthesia. The healthcare system is collapsing — not from neglect, but from relentless targeted destruction.

As he battled the exhaustion, the elements, and the solitude of the river, his purpose remained clear:

To support those who are enduring far worse — being starved, under bombardment, under blockade, and fighting for survival.

200 kilometres. One message:

You are not alone. We see you. We stand with you. We will not look away.

Please support Mark’s courageous journey and achievement by donating to his fundraiser. Every pound raised goes directly to Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) — one of the few humanitarian agencies still operating on the ground in Gaza and the West Bank.

Share. Donate. Be part of this movement to protect innocent lives.

More information about Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP):

Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) works for a future where every Palestinian has access to a comprehensive, effective and locally-led system of healthcare, and the full realisation of their rights to health and dignity.

To achieve this, we work in collaboration with Palestinian communities and trusted local partners to answer a wide range of health and social needs, from providing vital medical aid in emergencies, to supporting the development of better health services for the long term. We also uplift the voices of Palestinians, and campaign for an end to the barriers to health and dignity that come from living through occupation, displacement, discrimination and conflict.