I am turning 43 on December 3rd. This is not a landmark birthday. It is just any other birthday. And for most people, it is simply any other day. A day where they wake up, get ready, and face the challenges ahead. For most of us, getting ready involves taking a shower and making coffee--two simple everyday tasks that are easily taken for granted. Both these activities are made possible due to access to clean and safe water.

For a lot of people around the world, the morning routine looks very different. They must first walk for miles to fetch the water that it takes to do basic tasks such as bathe or prepare food.

For my birthday, I am not asking for gifts. I do not want to be treated to drinks or dinner. My one and only wish is to raise $1,000 to go towards providing clean and safe water for people who do not have ready access to it.

This is really not a lofty goal. All it would take is for 100 people to donate $10- or 50 people to donate $20. Simple. For the cost of a coffee and a danish, you can help me to achieve my birthday goal and to help make this world a slightly better place.

I hope you'll consider joining me to fund a water project. With your gifts and your help rallying support, we can provide clean, safe and reliable water to a community in Africa.

Today, too many children suffer needlessly - walking miles for dirty water that makes them sick. You and I can change that. Please make a donation and then help me spread the word.

Thank you!

Leah