Hello dear Asia Exchange readers,
Today we have a slightly different post for you. Asia Exchange‘s and our students’ contact person at PSU, Colin Gallagher, who teaches Business English to Thai and international students in Thailand, is participating in a charity marathon in Phuket this Sunday (June 7th)! This gentleman, who plays an important role between AE and the university and who has gained the sincere love of all of our students every semester, is also an avid sportsman. He enjoys spending his free time playing badminton and football and, of course, running. We conducted a small interview with him, and hope that you will support his cause!
How did you come to choose running a marathon for charity?
“I have, for many years, watched the London Marathon and it’s always been on my bucket list. I have great admiration for all those who take part. I see all the money that these amazing people raise for all these amazing good causes.
One of the reasons I moved to Phuket was to dedicate some of my time to working with kid’s charities. When I arrived on the island, I joined a number of charities, volunteering whenever I could. I was drawn to kids who are infected and affected by HIV in particular, due to the stigma that still surrounds this disease. In a lot of cases their families don’t want them, so they are literally dropped off at places like the Life Home Projects.
I want these kids to be given the same opportunities as my students at PSU. We are all equal, regardless of who or what we have. We should all be treated the same and with the same respect. If I can raise a little money to help these kids, I’m happy with that.”
Why Phuket Loves You club? Could you tell us a little more about the charity?
“I have worked with Phuket Loves You (PLU) before and I have seen the amazing work that these guys do. They are all volunteers and expats who dedicate their time, who work at PLU to help fund community based HIV projects in Phuket.
One of these projects is the Life Home Project Foundation. They provide a safe environment for children who are infected or affected by HIV. This can range from providing education to supplying much needed medicine.”
Anything else you would like to add?
“I have never run a marathon before and will probably be in a lot of pain afterwards, but my pain will be short lived in comparison to what these kids will have to go through for the rest of their life. It’s the least I can do. I am so thankful for all the support I have received so far. I will run like the wind on Sunday and try and raise as much money as possible!”
Asia Exchange will also be participating in Colin’s run, by supporting him for each km he runs. If and when Colin finishes the marathon, the foundation and its children will receive a total close to 18,000 THB! If you also wish to contribute to Colin’s mission, you may contact him directly at his email adress colingallagher2010[at]gmail.com.
We wish him the best of luck, and will be cheering for him here at the office. Expect an update after the marathon is over next week (if Colin has reached the finish line by then)!
The man of the hour himself!
