Jackie Sanders's Fundraising Page

The half marathon is a major milestone. No, I'm not in this picture.

Dec 06_Hmmm, time to change.

Dec 06_BBQ with friends

My turning point came in Dec 06. I was 110kg and at 157cm tall that’s obese.

I had high blood pressure, asthma, and a heart valve defect from childhood, always tired, at risk of diabetes and in need of an overhaul.

My mum, dad and 3 grown up kids are slender, fit and healthy individuals, so I can’t blame it all on genetics.

Sound bad? Unfortunately I'm not a lot different from many New Zealanders. It was time for a lifestyle change!

In the beginning I took salsa lessons, joined yoga and boxing classes and did lots of walking. I over did it at times, was a slacker at other times and have weathered set backs that in the past would have stopped my efforts.

The half marathon provided a goal to focus on and crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge on foot has become my incentive.

Right now it's all about the walking and the jogging. I’ve done 4 of the 5 ‘Run Auckland Series’ fun races, continued to reach new training milestones and lost 15kg along the way.

The level of fitness and good health I’ve achieved this year has been beyond my wildest dreams (and I’ve only just started). My life has done a 180 degree turn; I feel great and will never go backward.

I’ve had amazing support and helpful advice from experienced runners/walkers, coaches and mentors. I’ve trained with some amazing friends and trained alone.

Ready or not my friends, my work colleagues and I will be crossing the Harbour Bridge in October.

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

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.

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