Living Below The Line

We live in a VERY rich world.  Yet, more than a billion people live in poverty. Our word is full of inequality, and children are suffering as a result.

Every day, around the world, more than a billion people live on less than $2.25 per day.  I have pledged to do feed myself on just $2.25 per day for five days in September to get a glimpse into what life is like for so many others. 

I'll be doing this in support of Oxfam New Zealand.  They are a global movement for change – a network that empowers individuals, communities and organisations to build a future free from the injustice of poverty. They work in the Pacific, Southeast Asia and Africa, providing practical support, skills and resources to help people work their way out of poverty.  I feel very lucky to work with the team at Oxfam NZ and to be a part they are doing to change the world.

I know these 5 days will be hard, and incredibly humbling.  But I also know that there are people cheering me on and supporting me in this venture will be powerfully motivating.  Please show your support by making a donation to Oxfam NZ on my fundraising page here.  I will keep you updated on my blog, and on twitter so you can see how I'm going, and what I am eating, and of course, hear inspiring stories of how YOU are helping to make a difference.

THANK YOU.

Reflections

Sometimes a story completely grabs you.  It takes you away from the every day - the deadlines, to-do lists, forecasts and briefs - and reminds you WHY you do all of this.

That happened to me today.  I read a story so captivating that I haven't been able to stop thinking about it.  So powerful that I sobbed at my desk.  So beautiful that feel honored to be able to share it with donors. 

Tonight, my thoughts are with Emma's family.  Seven months ago they lost their gorgeous little girl to cancer, and I can't even begin to imagine what they go through every day. In a few weeks I will share more about this amazing young girl, her three year battle with cancer, and her beautiful family who was by her side as she went through every horrible moment of treatment. But today, I was reminded not only how precious life is (I certainly cuddled my little girl longer, and tighter than usual) but of the privilege it is to be able to share stories of people.  That these individuals are willing to share with us their struggles, their darkest moments, their hopes and their fears puts a profound responsibility on us as fundraisers.  That they allow us to share their stories with beautiful donors is an incredible honour.  

Emma's story touched me in more ways than I think I even realize, and she reminded me how very fortunate I am to have a career doing what I do.