Having drank socially since I was 18, I want to begin a journey of understanding the benefits of not drinking, especially now I have turned 40.

2020 has been a tough year for most and whilst I do not (or have never suffered) from addiction, I want to develop my awareness of the impact alcohol has on our mental health and what long-term effects it might have. 

Having worked at Diversity Travel for over 7 years, I've seen the difference donations to the Foundation have made assisting programs to support improvements to the mental health and wellbeing of the people of Bwindi, Uganda, so I'm doing this challenge for them as much as I am doing it for me.

I'll commit to updating you on my progress throughout the year, let you know of any changes (or close-calls!) and hopefully in the process, discover new things about myself.

Over the course of this year, I'm going to get involved with local initiatives that are designed to help improve mental health and wellbeing, alongside making a real effort to utlize my time more effectively by commiting to learning more about how small changes in lifestyle can have a positive impact - whether that be more reading, more focus on diet/nutrition or physical exercise to complement being more mindful.

In donating to my challenge, you'll not only give me the encouragement I need but directly support the people of Bwindi and the amazing work that goes on to improve the mental wellbeing of their community.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.