It's incredible to think that my mum passed away 16 years ago this November. I often think about what she would have been like in her twilight years... One thing I'm certain of is that she would have made a difference or had an impact on the world around her, in some way, shape or form.

She was and will always be my inspiration in life and that's why I'm taking on this challenge, to raise money for an amazing charity. There are no words to describe the gratitude that I have for everyone that helped care for and support mum (and us) through her last precious days. The kindness and tenderness that the nurses showed mum was beyond comprehension and is something that I will never, ever forget.

And so this is why I’m taking on this challenge... On 7th October 2012 I will be setting off for Tanzania and the adventure of a lifetime.

At 5,895m, Mt. Kilimanjaro is one of the largest volcanoes ever to break through the Earth's crust. My challenge is simple… Get to the top with a smile on my face, preferably in one piece, but most importantly having raised lots of money for St Christopher’s....!!! 

My trek starts in the rainforests of Lemosho Glades and will take 8 days to reach the summit and make the decent to Mweka Gate.

This is without doubt the hardest thing that I have ever undertaken and I do at times wonder whether I have lost my marbles… And then I remember why I'm doing this and know that I would have made my mum very proud.

I know that many of you have sponsored me in the past and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that you will be as generous this time round. I have experienced the amazing work that St Christopher’s do, first hand, and would be absolutely devastated if they could no longer provide this care and support for other families, due to lack of funding.

I am paying for the trip myself, so all donations, big or small will be gratefully received and will go directly to St. Christopher's.

Thanks...xXx