Strawberry Challenge

15 years ago, I was foolish enough to declare that I would participate in the "Dam tot Dam loop" in Amsterdam wearing a strawberry suit if my colleagues could raise 5,000 euros. Initially, I mentioned a banana suit, but since I was too big to fit in one, it became a strawberry suit. As you can see, the funds were raised within two days, and the money was donated to the charity our company had chosen to sponsor at that time.

A few weeks ago, one of my friends posted a reminder on Facebook, which got me thinking about whether I should do it again and turn it into a small reunion. So here we are, 15 years later—I am still big and overweight, but I am committed to running the Dam tot Dam race once more, this time again in a strawberry suit!

For this event, I would like to raise funds for CHD2 (https://www.curechd2.org/). Why CHD2? Well, after 15 years, our lives have moved on, and one of my dear friends from that time has experienced significant changes in their life. They have a beautiful son who has been diagnosed with CHD2, and their lives have been profoundly affected. Hence, I believe that supporting this charity is perfect, as it holds a connection to our previous run in 2008. The funds raised will be used to support further research in CHD2.

I would also like to challenge all of you to join me in this run. It doesn't have to be a full strawberry suit—you can wear a strawberry hat, a strawberry t-shirt, or any attire that incorporates a strawberry. The idea is to draw attention and raise awareness. If you are willing, you could even organize your own fundraising event.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Warm regards,

Wout