Amanda Nicolson's Fundraising Page

I've signed up as a Heart Racer to raise money to support the Heart Foundation. By donating through my webpage you will be helping the Heart Foundation continue its vital work in research, cardiac rehabilitation, education programmes and resources.

Five years ago (when I was 17), I was in a professional Auckland running squad and my coach sadly was killed by a heart attack (at an early age), doing what he loved most - running.

Ever since, I have slacked off a bit and refrained from competitive running. I saw this amazing opportunity and thought it would be a great idea to raise money for the charity that is killing all too many New Zealanders due to unhealthy life choices. It is also a chance for me to get motivated to run again, which is something I used to love doing.

Each day 16 New Zealanders die as a result of coronary heart disease. That's one person every 90 minutes. And many of these deaths are premature and preventable.

Cardiovascular disease (heart, stroke & blood vessel disease) is the single leading cause of death in New Zealand. It causes 40 percent of all deaths annually in our country - making it more deadly than all forms of cancer.

But the good news is that many risk factors for heart disease are preventable, if people make healthy lifestyle choices.

So, help me as I join the race to beat heart disease.

I'll do all the hard work (train for and complete the event), but I really need you to make a difference to the hearts of New Zealanders. I will keep you all updated with my progress.

So, please could you sponsor me?

Select the "Make a donation" button below. It's simple, fast and totally secure and the money goes directly to the Heart Foundation's bank account.

If you live in New Zealand your donation is tax deductible and a receipt will be issued.

So please help me today! And pass it on to your family and friends!

Many thanks for your support