I'm running the 2027 Paris Marathon for SOS MÉDITERRANÉE! On April 4th I'll be attempting my first-ever marathon, and I've decided to use this challenge to raise money for a cause that means a lot to me. Some of you know my story. After having to leave my country, I was granted refugee status in Belgium. I know what it feels like to leave your home behind and try to build a new life somewhere else. My journey was very different from that of people crossing the Mediterranean, but I believe everyone deserves the chance to find safety, regardless of where they were born or what circumstances they find themselves in. That's why I've chosen to run for SOS MÉDITERRANÉE , an organisation that rescues people in distress at sea. Their rescue ship, the Ocean Viking , operates in the Mediterranean, helping people who are risking their lives in search of safety. The crew provides rescue assistance, medical care, food, water and a safe place for people who have often been through unimaginable hardship. For the past 15 years, my work as a chess photographer and journalist has taken me around the world. I've met incredible people from all sorts of backgrounds, and I've learned that kindness and humanity don't have borders. Now I'm hoping to bring together my friends, colleagues, chess community and everyone who follows my streams to do something good together. ❤️ My fundraising goal is €2,000 , but I'd love to go beyond that! If you can spare a few euros, I'd be incredibly grateful. And if donating isn't possible, sharing this page would mean just as much. As for the marathon itself... I've never run anywhere near 42 km before, so this is going to be quite an adventure. I am also (quite literally) turniing 40 on.. the very same day, April the 4th! So this day is going to be very very special! I'll be sharing my training, struggles and hopefully some progress along the way! Thank you for helping me make those kilometres count. ❤️ Masha 🏃♀️♟️