Imagine waking up with no water, no flushing toilet, no shower, nowhere to even wash your hands, no safe drinking water. 

Clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene should be a normal part of everyone’s daily life, But, unfortunately, for some people, they do not have access to these basic human requirements. 

I did a 5 day mountain trek along the Inca Trail to raise money for Water Aid so they can provide clean water to more people.

It was one of the toughest things I have ever done, and probably will ever do. 

So many things out of my comfort zone - sharing a tent with a stranger, camping, no proper toilets, walking long distances. No home comforts! 

The altitude was a real struggle for me, I struggled to breathe and had to keep stopping after every few steps to catch my breath again. The local porters would run up past the side of us with huge loads on their backs, making me feel even more useless. 

But I did it, I reached the top of the pass -4,200m above sea level. It was an emotional summit for me. I thought finally I had achieved it, I had done it, after all this time! But the hard part was not over. 

Camp was freezing that night, we had snow, the views were non existent due to the rain clouds, it rained on and off for most of the trek. 

Everything was damp and wet and cold, every muscle in my body was aching. I was in a state of confusion from the altitude. I was hungry, but constantly felt full up. 

Then a stomach bug went through the group. On the last morning, sat in the dark and cold I think we were all wondering why we had signed up for the trip. 

The last day had another emotional summit at the sun gate overlooking Machu Picchu, which at the time we couldn’t even see due to the cloud! 

By the time we actually arrived at the world renowned site the cloud had cleared and it was a glorious sunny day, but as we were as so exhausted it was a struggle to take it all in. 

I still find it hard to believe I actually achieved this, after waiting nearly 3 years due to covid postponements it seemed to go by in a flash. It was quite surreal - but what an achievement!  I think I’m allowed to say I feel rather proud of myself! 

So, now comes your part - anything you can spare, every little helps. To help those who do not have water available at the turn of a tap. 

Thank you for your support.