My challenge is to complete 20,000 full pullups and/or chinups (palm out vs palm in) between January 2011 and the end of December 2011.

Please read on to find out why, and then stump up some cash.

On the 22nd of June 2010 my wife, Hannah, was rushed to hospital with what we thought was an asthma attack. By the time I got there, it transpired she had a large clot lodged in her right main coronary artery and was having a major heart attack. The surgeon and his team at the Royal Berkshire Hospital saved her life.

Having a heart attack which nearly kills your at the age of 26 is pretty scary, and being flat on your back for over a week to think about it, separated from your 3-year-old son is horrible.

Fortunately, the care provided by the staff in the Cardiac Care Unit at the Royal Berks was marvellous. Every member of staff was wonderful, without exception. The doctors, nurses, cleaners and the tea lady were all lovely and made the whole experience more bearable for us all.

To show my gratitude, I am raising money for the unit so that they can provide other patients with more comfort and an even nicer environment.

Inspired by friends who are doing a situp challenge, I have chosen to try to do 20,000 pullups (and/or chinups if you want to get technical) by the 31st December 2011. I stared in January and I have now reached half way. It's a pretty tough challenge, but I am on target and keeping track of my progress at http://www.wrigley.me.uk/wp/20000-pullups

Please donate whatever you can afford to help me reach my goal.

UPDATE: As of the 16th November, I have less than 4000 pullups to complete. That's still quite a lot! I could use some encouragement.