Update: Here's the race report: Run for Iraq on iGive Global
I traveled to Iraq in 2016 for the first time out of a mission to help. I had read reports of over 100,000 people needing to flee Mosul and the surrounding area where ISIS overtook the city. These families, Muslims and Christians, who had lived together peacefully for decades, were forced to leave everything they had and flee with the threats to their lives being real and immediate. Many had 24 hours or less to get out.
They left everything. Initially moved to tent camps, we helped families get into apartments in Erbil and supplied them with needed items.
Now, with the liberation of Mosul in 2017 by Iraq, many can go back to their homes but the devastation from ISIS and the urban warfare to take the city back is massive.
From Angelina Jolie's June 2018 visit to Mosul as a UNHCR volunteer, it was reported by the organization that:
"At least 40,000 homes need to be restored or rebuilt. Over 2 million people have been displaced and 3.8 million are counted as returnees."
I like to compete. I like to add value to others. I've been bringing the two together in various ways to raise funds for organizations I believe in over the past 3 years. This will be my biggest "add value" yet!
In 2017 while reading some news updates about things in northern Iraq I came upon information about the Erbil International Marathon. The marathon has a wonderful history and story of being an international event to promote "love, peace and non-violence in Iraq." The marathon was not held in 2017 due to some unrest in the region and is now back on for 2018 and I plan to be there to participate!
For me it's a physical challenge taking on 26.2 miles, a opportunity to return to visit those I know in Iraq, a way to bond with other runners and be part of a marathon cause I can support, and a visible event to focus on to bringing awareness and funding to families in great need in the region who want to go back to their homes.
I want to help, and you can join me in making this a reality!
I'm aiming to raise funds to repair at least 2 homes...in reality I'd love to blow that goal out of the water and do much more! Together we can.
There are opportunities to give as well as opportunities for businesses to sponsor me and support the cause. Learn more >
Will you join me?