100km Andean Volcano Challenge                                                                                                   

On March 1^st, 2020, I will be trekking 100km through the high altitude volcano region in Ecuador along with a group of 100 HSBC colleagues. Trekking will be new experience for me. I am fascinated by beautiful view of these mountains and have always wanted to go trekking for the longest. I know this experience will be a difficult one, but I will train and push myself while also enjoying the amazing views of the Andean mountains.

We always talk about physical health and regular exercises to take care of our body. However, we have to do the same for our mental health. Most of us are afraid of talking or discussing about mental health, more specifically we are scared to discuss the topics of stress or depression. Our brain is made up of approximately 100 billion neurons which transmit electrochemical signals. If our brain is not taken care of, these neurons may not function to the extent we need them to function. This  could cause many negative effects on our physical and mental well-being. For this reason, this trek is very important to me because not only does it give me happiness but with your donations we will be able to raise funds to support the mental well-being of many others in our community.

I select the JED foundation which is a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation's teens and young adults. They encourage community awareness, understanding and action for young adult mental health. I personally love the idea of raising money for this organization because I believe it is for a very amazing and under looked cause. With this money you will be donating, you will be improving the mental well-being of many people and create a more positive community. You can find more information at https://www.jedfoundation.org/. All your donations will go to the JED foundation directly.  Greatly appreciate your support.