Hello dear readers and subscribers.

I don’t normally make appeals on behalf of myself on this site, but this appeal is rather urgent. I was hoping to make this post later in the month, and tie it into some giveaway freebies, but sadly time and circumstance has forced my hand.

On October 10th, the very day that the Yin & Yang Books will be launched, I will be running the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon on behalf of mental health charity Mind.

This is a subject very close to my heart. I’ve suffered from mental health problems for most of my adult life, including serious bouts of depression that have, at times, impacted on my ability to edit stories for both The Red Book and The Yin Book. The fact that I’m still here, and still able to edit, is testimony to the support of my family and friends, but also the work of mental health professionals.

When I needed them most, organisations like Mind did not let me down. Now I don’t want to let them down. I have set a fundraising target of £500. However, I only just noticed this morning that if I don’t raise £200 by tomorrow(!) then I may lose my place in the race. Nothing like the pressure of a deadline to get you focused.

So, if you feel you can afford it, please do pop along to my fundraising page at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/panderson1979. If you are a UK resident taxpayer, then please fill in the Gift Aid declaration, which allows Mind to reclaim the tax on donation, which amounts to an extra 28p in every pound.

With the global recession, times are tough, I realise that. Tougher still for charities, and their ability to continue with their work. No matter how big or small, your donation will be appreciated. And if you can’t give money, then please give some publicity. Let others know, perhaps they’ll feel like donating.

As an added incentive, there will be two giveaways. Every person who sponsors me will be eligible to receive free ebooks copies of not only The Yin & Yang Books, but also The Red Book. Not only that, but the person who gives the largest sum of money will receive a paperback copy of The Yin & Yang Books when they are available.

Just mention Chinese Whisperings in the comments section when you make your donation, and you’ll be entered into the draw. The winner will be selected at random after the race on 10 October.

So what are you waiting for? Spread the word, and please donate!