Shoes 4 Africa - on their way

Did you know . . .

• An estimated 24.5 million adults and children were living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa at the end of 2005. During that year, an estimated 2 million died from AIDS.


• To date, the AIDS pandemic has left behind more than 14 million orphans . . . approximately 92% of them live in Africa. If, as expected, the number of adults dying from AIDS rises over the next decade, Afirca will largely be a nation of orphans.


• Although Africa represents 10% of the world's population they account for 83% of AIDS related deaths. The average life expectancy of a Kenyan is 48-years old. Swaziland's life expectancy is under 40 years old.


• Putting shoes on a person increases hygeine, builds self esteem and greatly reduces the chance of Intestinal Worms. Close to 92% of Kenyan children tested had Hookworm, which enter the body through exposed bare feet.

What an amazing organization. WWW.SHOES4AFRICA.ORG

I think how tough it is for me to run WITH the right equipment and shoes to make it all easy - and I still have issues. Running is the NUMBER 1 sport in Africa - and most of them are barefoot!

This organization has done some amazing things. MORE than just sending some used shoes to athletes in Africa, they focus on AIDS EDUCATION; they organize races; they give women and children new opportunities; they create SCHOLARSHIPS; they have helped Olympic atheletes become recognized. Amazing. You inspire me.

I just sent 6 pairs of shoes off ($52 - USPS help us!!!???). And hope they give TWICE as much strength and JOY as they gave to these feet in the U.S.A.