Five years ago I found out that I would have cancer for the rest of my life. This was a huge shock, and it took me a long time to adjust to my new lifestyle. I honestly don't think I could have got to the happy, mentally healthy state I'm in now if I hadn't had so much help from Shine Cancer Support - so now it's time for me to return the favour.

COVID-19 has hit Shine very hard. It's a tiny charity with a minuscule income compared to others, and the recent cancellation of sponsored events means that a huge amount of its income for the year has disappeared. Without this funding it won't be able to carry on its crucial work - and that's where my sponsored challenge comes in...

I was due to climb Ben Nevis at the end of April this year, partly to prove that it takes more than a bit of cancer to stop me. Obviously that's no longer possible, but instead I'm going to climb the equivalent height on my cheap, poor quality treadmill. Having done some sums, I'm going to have to walk 134.5km on it to climb 1,345m. 

As an added bonus I'll be taking sponsored nominations to wear silly (or branded!) outfits for each of my climbs. These outfits must be made from whatever I already have in the house, so I don't waste money that could go to Shine or risk bringing in infection while I'm at home shielding. This will be hard work, but I'll have the knowledge that it's for a really good cause to keep me going!

That's because Shine is needed now, more than ever. Just because everyone's normal life has stopped doesn't mean that cancer has. People are still being diagnosed every day, having to make decisions about treatment, undergoing brutal surgery, chemo and radiotherapy - frightening enough at the best of times without the added fear of coronavirus. Shine has moved very quickly to ensure that its support can continue to reach those who most need it, but this all costs money.

Any gift, no matter the size, will make a huge difference to this small but vital charity. Please give whatever you can. Thank you.