IN OUR society we tend to take childbirth for granted.

Yet it's a potentially dangerous experience for any mother, particularly in third world countries where conditions are relativley primitive - like giving birth in the dirt.

It sounds shocking, but unfortunately it is true.

The plight of these woman has touched the hearts of many people, including members of the Zonta Club around the world for their less fortunate "sisters."

Susie Dunn, a member of the Zonta Club Southern Gold Coast Tweed is putting her feet where her mouth is and pounding the turf to raise funds to help them.

Her challenge involves her walking for 24 hours nonstop to raise $3000.

It is estimated 385,000 women die annually in childbirth around the world.

Many die from infections acquired during childbirth.

Funds go towards purchasing birthing kits to prevent the death of mothers and babies in countries where midwives and doctors are not available.

Ms Dunn works as a Child and Family Health nurse working in the community and is a former midwife.

"This project is especially dear to my heart, given my experience as a midwife," she said.

She will start walking at 11am on Saturday September 15, leaving from the Uniting Church in Kingscliff and finishing around 11am on September 16 at Faulks Park on Marine Parade, Kingscliff.

She is being supported by Tweed Fitness owner, Mike Gates, who is overseeing her training and is offering a support crew to walk with her through the night.

"As part of this training, I am about to walk through the night this weekend," said Ms Dunn.

"I will be walking for sixteen hours through to 7am, as this is an integral part of my training."

Zonta Vice President Marie-Elise Allen said this "amazing effort" was a chance for the community to get behind her and support her vision and goal.

Each birthing kit costs $3.

Zonta, with the help of Ms Dunn is seeking to purchase 1000 kits this year.

"Sponsorship from the walk will be used for the sole purpose of buying the components required to assemble these kits," said Ms Allen

You can make your donation in sponsoring Susie Dunn to the Bank of Queensland.

Account Name: Zonta Club of Southern Gold Coast Tweed, BSB:124-001 Account No: 11139149