In September 2024, I will be trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru, to raise money for this amazing charity.  This will be challenging for me both mentally and physically - it will take me completely out of my comfort zone and push my limits.  But I am lucky that I am able to make the decision to put myself through this - the families that Demelza House work with face mental and physical challenges on a daily basis, but do so with courage and bravery.

So when my good friend, who works as a nurse for Demelza in the community, asked if anyone would like to take on the challenge with her, I jumped at the chance! An opportunity to put my courage to the test to go someway towards helping fund the work of this incredible charity to benefit families who are less fortunate than mine.  Hearing first hand stories of exactly how Demelza help families, has been the driving force behind my decision to take part.

Bringing up children and raising a healthy, happy family is hard work at the best of times. When a child is born with or develops a terminal condition, the emotional and physical impact affects the whole family and can be overwhelming. As specialists in care for young people and family support, Demelza use their outstanding knowledge, experience and expertise to help families enjoy their lives together.

Demelza are there in their time of need, providing support and enriching the lives of the families they work with.  Not only do they provide important, specialist respite, symptom management and end of life care both in the hospice and at home to children and young people, but they also support the whole family in so many other ways to make day to day living that bit easier, such as helping with chores, shopping, appointments, paperwork; providing therapies such as music and art therapy or counselling; sourcing activities for the child or young person, siblings and parents to name but a few.  But above all, they make sure that their lives are filled with fun, laughter and happy memories.

I know times are hard for everyone at the moment, but if you do feel you are able to donate to my cause, I would very much appreciate it.  Demelza is run almost entirely on generous donations and every donation will go towards enabling this charity to continue to support these families.

Thank you in advance xx