Thanks for visiting my JustGiving page.

When I was diagnosed with Cervical Cancer in 2007 aged 29 my world fell apart. I had to undergo several operations as well as external and internal radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Coming to terms with the diagnosis, going through many months of treatment, having to deal with an early Menopause and resulting infertility as well as the loss of my relationship left me exhausted, tired, drained of energy and with a lowered self – esteem.

In September 2011 I went on an Odyssey trip in the West of Scotland not knowing what would await me and who I would be spending a whole week with. I only had a list of what clothes to bring and everything else ahead was a sheer mystery and surprise.

Odyssey (www.Odyssey.org.uk) is a charity which enhances the quality of life for cancer patients, through imaginative programmes of challenging and dramatic activities using the outdoors. Odyssey takes people on a 5 day journey aimed at combating the psychological and emotional devastation caused by their illness. Odyssey seeks out wild and peaceful places that are steeped in atmosphere, striving to give participants a rich and varied experience, with the chance to try activities they may never have tried before. Programmes are tailored so everyone can participate to a level with which they’re comfortable. Odyssey’s aim is to challenge but not overwhelm. The course is an adventure, and as with all true adventures those embarking on it do so with only a limited idea of what lies ahead.

The week with Odyssey has been one of the best experiences in my life. I managed to do activities that I never thought I could do, it helped to regain my confidence and showed me how to enjoy each moment when not knowing what lies ahead and what comes next. During the trip I met some very special people, who I had a fun and amazing time with and who have now become part of my life. I am so glad and grateful that I had the opportunity to go on the Odyssey trip.

Odyssey has taught me that I can achieve anything and I am now ready to face yet another even bigger challenge: A trek through the Moroccan Sahara!!! The trek will take place from 20 – 27 October 2012 and over 5 days I will be walking 100km through the Sahara desert.

Now I would like to give others the opportunity to enjoy this special Odyssey experience. To be able to take part in this challenge I am asked to raise at least £2500. This will cover the cost of the trip (£1000) and the rest of the money (at least £1500) will go directly to Odyssey and help pay for another person’s Odyssey experience.

With your donation you will help this small charity to continue creating special experiences for people living through cancer.

Thank you so much for your support and taking the time to read my story.

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 and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity. Donations from abroad are also possible on this site ;-)

So please dig deep and donate now.

Thanks.

Sophie  xx