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Sponsored 185k walk across SpainAn exciting fundraiser took place in July 2006 in support of Feminenza’s Humanity and Gender Programme in Kenya - by Sandra O’SullivanIt all started with an unexpected lunchtime conversation with Breda Carroll, a friend from work, here in Ireland. Breda was talking about her plans for the summer and that she was stepping outside the box(!) by doing a 185 km walk in Northern Spain along with her daughter Leonie in mid July. I asked Breda whether herself and Leonie would consider doing the walk as a fundraiser in support of Feminenza’s Humanity and Gender Programme in Kenya. I was totally delighted when they both said yes! We were already well into June, so there was no time to spare…sponsorship cards were designed in super quick time and sent out across the Feminenza network. The next step was to have a launch here in Ireland, so family and friends met in my home to launch the 'Sponsored Walk' in Northern Spain. Breda, of course, was our guest of honour and was accompanied by her husband Donie and a photo of Leonie who was travelling in China. Being Ireland, every one arrived with homemade cakes, sandwiches, nibbles, and a few bottles of wine... and of course the cups of tea were flowing... I spoke about Feminenza and how this fundraiser came about and then we watched the 15 min. DVD that was filmed in Kenya as part of Feminenza’s International Conference in January. Many thanks to Gill Huyton in England for getting the DVD to us so quickly! When the film was over everyone just sat in silence for a few moments, clearly very moved, some with a few tears! There was a great exchange of conversation well into the night with much interest into what Feminenza is all about. Breda confirmed that even though Feminenza is new to her, she felt instinctively well about giving her support. Everyone was clearly very inspired by Breda and Leonie for taking up this challenge and said they will be 'right there with them' especially walking uphill! Sponsorship, large and small, soon began to generously roll in from friends, family, work colleagues and even some corporate sponsorship. Meanwhile Leonie and Breda were in training and messages of support came in from near and far! On July 18th Leonie and Breda arrived in Northern Spain and commenced their walk the following day along the historical pilgrimage route, starting in Ribadeo, then on to Mondonedo, Vilalba, Baamonde, Miraz, Sobrado dos Monxes, Arzua and Arca finally finishing up in Santiago de Compostela! Each day walking from 6am till about 12 mid-day to avoid the scorching sun, on average 26 Km. a day, staying in refugios (very basic accommodation) along the way. We are glad to say they completed the walk successfully. We are all very proud of and grateful to both ladies for their energy and generosity! How you can help ...For more information on how you can help make this programme a
success, follow this link for details
on donations and sponsorship |
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© Feminenza
2007 |
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