Last November I was part of an exclusive group of 65 participants who trekked Patagonia on the 150th anniversary of the Welsh settlers arriving in South America.

I have always been fascinated by Patagonia, it's history and connection with Wales and as a keen walker I always wanted to visit this part of the world. The trip also gave me the opportunity to practice my Welsh, say shwmae and hwyl am y tro!

Following in the footsteps of the first Welsh settlers was very special, and standing on top of Craig Goch singing the Welsh anthem 150 years to the very same day as our ancestors was very emotional. The trek was very challenging with long days over snow-capped mountains, difficult muddy jungle trails, and very steep decents. But the Patagonia Trek was not as tough as the challenge facing cancer patients each day, and I was very pleased to raise over £9000 so Velindre can continue to help people in the future and with more research and hopefully find a cure for cancer.

Velindre is a wonderful charity that helps so many people, including a few of my friends, family and work colleagues, providing vital treatment, care and support. The number of people suffering from cancer is on the increase; none of us know what's around the corner and I want to do my bit to help.

So I have decided to put my walking boots on again and will be trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru in September 2017. I have organized and will be leading two special walks to celebrate the autumn and spring Equinox, the first from Barry to Rhoose Point on 25th September and the next one on Pen-Y-Fan in March 2017.

If you would like to support me and Velindre, please donate safely and securely online here or text WWWM80 followed by the amount you wish to donate to 70070.

Thank you!