Julie seeks sponsors for charitable desert trek

A desert trek awaits the Revd Dr Julie Watson, Science Programme Co-ordinator at the University of Teesside. However, her 70km trek across the Sinai Desert, between Africa and Asia, is not part of a holiday. Julie, 43, from Redcar is also a Priest at St. Peter’s C of E Church in her hometown, and will be crossing the desert to help raise funds for the Nazareth Hospital in Israel. The Hospital is the oldest in Israel, and treats patients of all faiths.

Julie said: “I’d like to raise money for the Nazareth Hospital as it’s a place of healing, where people of all faiths can sit and talk to each other and communicate. This doesn’t normally happen in such a troubled area. I’m hoping to raise £2,000 and would welcome sponsorship of any amount.”

Julie will be part of a team of 25, half of whom will be fund raising for the Nazareth Hospital, and the other half for an Edinburgh-based charity for the homeless. The trek will take place from 20-28 March and involves walking more than 70km over mountains and dry river beds.

Julie added: “I’m looking forward to the trek as the Sinai Desert is regarded as one of the most attractive walking areas in the world, with vast open spaces and ever-changing scenery. We’ll be walking in daytime temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius, but we’ve been told to take layers of clothing for the night, as we’ll be sleeping under the stars at some points and apparently it gets very cold. I’ll miss my home comforts, particularly the toilet and shower! I’ll also have to increase my training, as I’ve over-indulged over Christmas!”

Anyone wishing to sponsor Julie can either call her on 01642 342472, or e-mail her at j.s.watson@tees.ac.uk

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