My Story

Why I'm Running the London Marathon for HealthProm

Twenty years ago, I arrived in London. I didn't know many people, and was trying to figure out how to build a life in a new city.

My friend Paul K. introduced me to HealthProm, and it became part of my story here.

I started volunteering - helping with events, fundraising, marketing. Through that work, I witnessed the real impact: vulnerable children, women, and families whose lives were being transformed by HealthProm's work in some of the world's most challenging places. Years later, I became a trustee because after two decades, I know this organization does what it says it will do.

What HealthProm does:

Since 1984, HealthProm has supported communities others forget - those affected by poor health, disability, social exclusion, or forced displacement. From Afghanistan to Central Asia to Eastern Europe to the UK, they bring medical expertise and genuine compassion where it's needed most.

Founded by doctors and health professionals, they don't just provide healthcare - they fill gaps that shouldn't exist but do.

Why I'm running:

Running has always been part of my life - from childhood in Almaty, Kazakhstan to finding my feet in London. This marathon is about honoring that journey while supporting an organization that's been part of my London story for twenty years.

I left London, and now live near Berlin, but my commitment to HealthProm remains as strong as ever. On April 26th, I'm running 42 kilometers through the city that gave me so much.

My target is £2,000. After twenty years of witnessing HealthProm's impact firsthand, I know every pound makes a real difference.

Join me in supporting vulnerable children and families who desperately need access to healthcare and dignity.

Thank you for being part of this journey.