Anne Curtis (MNS Photo)
MANILA (Mabuhay) –Anne Curtis is known to join marathons. More than just to stay fit, however, she has aligned her passion with advocacy to help underprivileged children.
The actress has organized the Heroes for Children Run 2015 in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Philippines. The activity is meant to raise awareness on the importance of health and nutrition in the crucial first thousand days of an infant.
“For someone (like me) who actually does enjoy running and is into health and fitness, it would just be a great way to raise resources, giving children the best start in life,” said Anne in a recent conference.
Anne took the initiative to spearhead the fundraising project, noting, “Hindi naman pwede na you’re just gonna sit there and wait for things to be done for you. You have to come up with your own ideas and share with the team (UNICEF) and see if it’s approved or if it’s within what they would like.”
The drive behind the project was inspired by her visit to Tacloban, Leyte early this year where she was able to meet mothers and children deprived of proper health care and nutrition. “I saw firsthand how important it is for mothers to have prenatal checkups, vaccinations, how important breastfeeding is, etc.”
She added, “The experience I had there was something I’ll carry. It’s just how happy I am – just being able to bring smiles to these children, to their families. It’s something I really haven’t experienced before in my life.”
Her passion for the project is infectious. “I will be doing my best in raising awareness for the children out there (because) so much has to be done… Children have to be in priority because seeing how these children are, you’d only want the best for them. You want them to have a brighter future and at least try to make this world a better place for them.”
The marathon, scheduled on Oct. 25 at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds, will feature a 500-metre dash for kids aged 12 and below, 5k, 10k and 21k.
Anne will run the 21k. She noted, “I think it’s all this passion for the children that I have that will get me through this very first half marathon of mine.” (MNS)