My name is Erns Grundling, I'm a journalist, author and TV presenter of the kykNET travel show Elders. I'm also someone who knows and lives with the Black Dog, as depression is commonly known. (The video above was a collaboration by illustrator Matthew Johnstone and the World Health Organization.)

This year I will attempt my first marathon and my aim is to raise funds for an organisation that's very close to my heart: the Ithemba Foundation NPC. Ithemba means "hope" in isiXhosa. 
Ithemba Foundation strives to raise awareness of depression as a biological illness, and raise funds for research about this disease, which so often leads to loss of life.

I have never run further than 30 km before in my life and I aim to run the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in less than four hours on 17 October, and to put in a full day's work afterwards. I have set a target of R42 200 - R1 000 per km or R1 per meter - but you are welcome to donate any amount that you see fit. 

You can follow my training on Strava and on my Facebook page. 

Thanks for supporting Ithemba Foundation and the crucial role it plays in awareness, research and education of depression.