Due to current lockdown restrictions, Winter Walk 2021 has been cancelled. I have therefore opted to complete a 25km walk along the historic bridges of London and take in the views of the Capital like never before, by taking part in Thames Trek 2021 - one of Ultra Challenges taking place this year.

I am doing this walk around central London on Saturday 11 September for my incredible, brave and amazing granny Martha. At the age of 85 my granny has lived a full life, having been born and raised on the beautiful island of Jamaica, she came to England as a young woman as part of the Windrush generation and spent much of her adult life in the service of others, not only in her role as a mother and wife, but also whilst working as an auxiliary nurse at King's College Hospital, spending decades looking after premature babies barely clinging onto life (me included).

As time has slipped by, and days have turned into months, and months into years, this beautiful, kind and gentle soul has begun to lose some of her spark. It has been heart-breaking to witness, as that glow she has always had begins to fade ever so gently and silently rob her of the constant peace she once knew.

I have decided to do this challenge, because I pray that one day there is a cure, there is further education and there is a time, when families and friends no longer have to fear that moment when their loved ones will recognise their face for the very last time. My granny isn't there yet, but one day I know she will be and that is a pain I would never want anybody to face. So please if you can, help me to make a difference and whilst I have your attention, go and tell your loved ones just how much they mean to you and treasure the gift of this very moment.

God bless you now and always!

Salaam

Samantha x