At the end of May I am taking on the huge challenge of climbing Kilimanjaro raising money for a local charity Sporting Family Change.
Having spoken to a few people who have climbed Kilimanjaro, I am under no illusion this is going to be a little stroll up a hill - this is MASSIVE and all have told me that mentally it is really tough, as you get higher the altitude starts to mess with your head and I will be one of the lucky ones if I get away without altitude sickness ... but the sense of personal achievement and pride will be enormous when we reach the summit!!!
Coupled with this, climbing Kili will be nothing compared to some of the enormous challenges the families, children, carers and young adults which Sporting Family Change support every day. The work this wonderful organisation does, mentoring, coaching and supporting people who, for whatever reason, find themselves in a less fortunate position than me. Women who have suffered domestic violence, but whose courage and strength with their children after all they have gone through, is amazing. Children with no confidence and no belief that they are worthy of any happiness, laughing and playing sport and for the first time believing in themselves. Young adults with disabilities who are told they will never work, never experience independence, transformed through the job coaching offered by Sporting Family Change. Families with carer responsibilities, given the opportunity to enjoy a short holiday, with Sporting Family Change on hand to give the family respite and a chance to enjoy time together.
I am self-financing my climb so all money donated will go directly to Sporting Family Change.
www.sportingfamilychange.co.uk/our-story/