In September, I’ll be taking part in the Skyscraper Challenge, which involves running up 42 floors of the Leadenhall building (AKA The Cheesegrater) and abseiling 200 metres down the side of it!

I am trying to raise £1000 for the Guide Dogs organisation - they do amazing work and need more funds to help them increase the number of people with sight-loss they can support. The effect of sight loss on people’s lives can be devastating and guide dogs have such a crucial role in improving their quality of life. 

This charity is close to my heart as I suffer from an eye condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa, which makes cells in the retina break down slowly over time, causing vision loss. At the moment it only has a mildly negative effect on my life - its effects are mainly noticeable when it is dark and mean that some of my peripheral vision is blurry - but the vision loss could progress as I get older. Luckily there is some amazing research happening at the moment into stem cell treatments which may help me and others in the future.

Unfortunately, for my Aunt, the vision loss caused by Retinitis Pigmentosa has advanced to the stage where she needs a guide dog to assist her with day-to-day life. The opportunity to have a guide dog has been so important for her. Here is what she has to say about her experience:

“I have had my guide dog, Tara, for nearly five years now and the time has flown by. I have some sight which changes constantly.  Having a guide dog helps me get around more confidently and I can negotiate any obstacles that come my way. You never really stop training with a guide dog and building up a special partnership. I am lucky to have Tara right now, as so many are waiting for their new dog.”

I really appreciate any donations - many thanks!

The  London Landmarks Skyscraper Challenge is 100% not for profit.

https://skyscraperchallenge.co.uk/about-the-event/