Andrew Running the Cape Town Marathon to raise Funds for Congolese Refugees, Ep. 539
About this episode
Andrew O'Brien shares his journey of running the Cape Town Marathon as a fundraiser for Congolese refugees after overcoming significant personal challenges.
Andrew O'Brien is running the Cape Town Marathon on May 24th — his first marathon since nearly losing his leg in 2018 — and he's turned it into a fundraiser for Congolese refugees through the UNHCR. The Personal Journey 🦵 After getting medical clearance in 2023, Andrew challenged himself to not just finish a marathon, but break the sub-4-hour mark (currently on pace for 3:30–3:45). The Cape Town race appealed to him partly because it's on the verge of becoming a World Major Marathon. The "Why" Behind the Fundraiser ❤️ A 2024 visit to a refugee camp in Goma, DRC changed him completely — particularly the image of a boy with a worn-out soccer ball. When war overtook Goma in January 2025, Andrew deepened his commitment. He negotiated with the UNHCR to direct 100% of donations specifically to Congolese refugees in Burundi. The Numbers 💰 Original goal: $3,000 → already surpassed at $4,400+ New goal: $5,000 The Drag Queen Twist 👑 Hit $3,000? Andrew promised to run Central Park dressed as Dolly Parton — happening around April 26th. Sneakers only, no heels! The Bigger Message 💪 Fundraising, recovery, and marathon training all demand the same thing: mental strength, vulnerability, and…
More episodes of Take it from the Ironwoman
- Put On Your Running Shoes for Leadership, GET FIT in 2026, Susanne Mueller, Ep. 543
- Three Legs, One Heart: How a Para-Triathlete Defies the Odds, Robert Anthony, Ep. 542
- The Waffle Runner: Sport, Joy & Human Kindness, Blandine Rolea, Ep. 541
- Leyla Novini - Creativity Quotient, Designer, Storyteller, Leader, Ep. 540
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Take it from the Ironwoman podcast page.