54 Marathons in 52 Weeks for 52 Children in Africa

My friend and fellow marathoner, Dana Casanave, recently completed the challenge of a lifetime. She ran 54 marathons in 52 weeks to benefit 52 children in Africa, her last marathon ending on her 30th birthday. As a mother of three, this extreme physical and emotional sacrifice was no small feat.

Please read her incredible story below and if inspired, donate to her amazing cause. Congratulations on a job well done, Dana! WOW!!!

Dana Did It!!! 54 Marathons in 52 Weeks  for 25:40's Children   Dana Casanave completed her ambitious goal to run 52 marathons in 52 weeks. In fact, she surpassed her goal -- running 54 marathons in 52 weeks -- ending her quest on Jan. 15 in Georgia on her 30th birthday.  This young mother of three sacrificed family time and put her body to the test for an entire year, running one and sometimes two marathons every weekend for 25:40.    Each week she ran for a different child in rural South Africa who faces challenges from poverty, AIDS and violence. Dana made a difference -- 54 new beginnings for each of these children.   She raised more than $14,000 during her year-long journey for 25:40 and hopes to raise even more to meet her ultimate goal of $26,000.   The money she raised helped to pay for verifying the identity of more than 2,000 children in the Eastern Cape who are considered orphaned and vulnerable. Her funds also helped fund the expense of registering these children with the South African government so that they are now receiving monthly grants. This small income helps these children eat regularly and go to school.   The funds you helped her raise also pay for emergency food parcels for those children who face severe malnutrition.   The board of 25:40 thanks every single one of Dana's 150 friends and acquaintances who donated and everyone who supported her along the way -- especially Jeremy, Amira, Angelina and Austin.   We do not have enough words to express our deep and humble gratitude for Dana, who has touched so many lives this past year.  It's not too late. Donate now at www.2540.org. 25:40    P.O. Box 10534  Burke, VA 22009       2540@cox.net    www.2540.org    CFC #10868