Where do I start. That one phone call - “Paul you’re on the team to run around the world” - will it ever sink in?

Well the journey has begun. I’m here in Lake Placid with a group of amazing people who, like me, are starting out on the journey of a life time. Many obstacles will stand in our way but the bond among the team will drive us through.

At home I’m a College student and part time Head Gardener, married with 4 children. Since meeting my wife 20 years ago we have never been apart for more than 2 weeks. This journey will last 100 days, so it is not only going to be the physical challenge that is going to be tough but also that horrible gut feeling that I get every time I’m alone and thinking of them.

I wonder - will it ever get easier? Then I remember why I’m here, to help millions of people who are really suffering, and it puts my small amount of suffering into perspective.

“You will come to Lake Placid for boot camp the week before the run”. Yes a holiday in the States before we start. NO!!! 5.30am runs! New technology! Blogging! Media work! Yes, they were right to call it a boot camp. Bring on the run, as things can only get easier.

I have spent the last 16 years working in a garden where I can go for weeks without meeting another human being (I like my own company) and now I’ve been put into this foreign world of being sociable 24/7 (an American term I think). Then I’m back to that thought, how can I call this suffering, come on Paul see the bigger picture, come out of your shell and go out their and help those who are truly suffering. I have to be one of the luckiest people around, using my passion for running to pass on the message of fresh drinking water for all.