During a recent volunteering day at the Ripple Retreat, arranged by my employer, Blackford Group, I was very fortunate to meet Lynne McNicoll, the co-founder of the charity, It’s Good to Give, and some of her amazing team. The Ripple Retreat is a purpose-built, restful place, on the shores of Loch Venachar, Callander. It provides families a peaceful escape and opportunity to relax and focus on mental wellness and allows time away from doctors, procedures, and hospitals, in a safe and calming environment.

From the moment I met Lynne, I was truly inspired by her passion, dedication, and hard work, in making a difference to young cancer patients and their families. Lynne and her husband, Ian, set up the charity in 2010 to provide practical support on a day-to-day basis and a dream to create a retreat where families could go to spend a few days together away from the hustle and bustle and noise of a hospital ward.

Over lunch, Lynne provided us with a brief presentation of some of the things that the charity does to support patients and their families, as well as some of the fundraising activities that happen throughout the year to raise well needed funds. One of the things that stuck with me was that prior to setting up the charity, when Lynne turned 50, she wanted to raise £50,000 for charity, which she did, in fact she, she smashed it! This got me thinking!

I have decided in my 50th year, I want to raise money for charity and, as Lynne planted the seed, why not help support It’s Good to Give. Therefore, on the 5th of February 2025, I will be travelling to Rovaniemi in Finland and from there spending three days trekking into the Arctic Circle. Pulling my own kit in a pulk (a Nordic sled) battling against the elements, and sleeping in tents, during which the temperature can drop to -30°!

Between now and departing for Finland, I will provide regular updates with my preparation, training and, most importantly, fundraising. Please support my in raising money for this wonderful charity.