60 year old Cathy Draper from Romford is planning to circumnavigate the globe to help Kids Alive, a Hornchurch-based charity that works to help children in poor countries.
Cathy has bravely and admirably decided to take a year away from her job, home and family to take part in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.
She has joined the Qingdao crew, which is made up of both professional and amateur sailors. Cathy was selected to take part from hundreds of other applicants. She said: “I am very excited but apprehensive at taking on such a challenge.”
Cathy was inspired to raise money after seeing the difficult lives that orphaned and abandoned children Bethany School in Bekoiji, Ethiopia lead.
The Kids Alive charity offers education to over 300 children in the town and provides food, clothes “and hope”.
Jenny Cox, Kids Alive editorial and publications manager said: “We are thrilled that Cathy is raising money for Kids Alive as she sails around the world. “It is such an extreme challenge. We really admire her determination and she will be making a lasting difference to children’s lives in the process!”
To support Cathy, go to www.justgiving.com/catherinedraper.