We're going to take part in Walk the Wight on 17th May 2009 to raise funds for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice. I will add that as I'll have my two boys with me I wont be doing the 26 mile trek accross the Island but the 8 mile flat walk from Sandown to Newport along the old railway. However as I'll probably be pushing a buggy with toddler boards and my two boys for most of the way it'll feel more like the 26 miles!

I want to raise some money for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice for two reasons: first, hospices are such a big thing to both terminally ill patients and their families. It is not just a place for a patient to stay until the end, but they offer day centres where people who are being cared for at home can come and have a day out away from the stress of home, talking to different people and taking part invarious activities. For some people it can be the only time they get out of the house. This also gives their carers a well deserved break. This can be an absolute lifeline to those who are taking on the responsibility of looking after a terminally ill loved one.

My second reason is a personal one. My son has a condition usually associated with cancer sufferers called Lymphoedema. It is not a life threatening condition but does need constant management and medical help. If it were not for the generosity of the lymphoedema service at the hospice we would have to take Jack to London for his check, usually every couple of months. They did not ahve to offer to take his case on, but have bent over backwards to help him and us and for that I am eternally grateful.

Since the start of the recession the Earl Mounbatten Hospice has had to shut down six of it's beds as well as losing some of it's staff members because it relies heavily on donations from the general public. This essential service is at risk and I want to do all I can to help. I know times are tough at the moment but if anyone could donate anything at all it would all help. Please, please give a donation, no matter how small. I will be taking the walk (and hoping the weather stays nice) and will post some pictures when I've completed it.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Earl Mountbatten Hospice gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Thanks for reading.