Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Earlier in the year a friend introduced me to a wonderful charity 'HorseBack UK', www.horseback.org.uk which is supported by 'Help For Heros' which has been created to provide a safe and secure environment to aid those serving, or those who have served in the UK armed forces. Many of whom have suffered physical injury and/or acute stress as a result of their commitment to their country.

The principals behind the charity is:

After reading through the testimonials on the website I felt truly humbled by the sheer rawness and honesty of the words.

 - I am an individual who has been suffering from PTSD for 10 years. On a regular basis I have to make the decision whether to live or die, to stay in the depths of despair, depression, worthlessness, guilt or horror. Talking with people who have been through the same thing helps me but today I met my horse Ellie May. She could feel everything that was going on inside me so there was no escape, I had to stand tall and be strong. I had to let her know how emotionally fragile I am but at the same time gain her respect and be strong to protect and lead her. We connected and I felt strong, capable and in control for the first time in many years. This has breathed new life into me as for 10 years I’ve been lost and now after 5 days with HorseBack I am found. Thank you Thank you

 - The opportunity to become mobile again in those who have lost the ability to walk, either through limb loss or injury, cannot be underestimated and it is extremely significant for these men. Before their injury, they were exceptionally fit and active highly trained soldiers; many had a keen interest in outdoor pursuits such as climbing and mountaineering. The sense of loss is especially debilitating, despite extraordinary levels of determination, courage and commitment. There is not only the suffering of the physical loss, but the psychological impact of the loss of independence, aspirations and ability.

 

 - Working with the horses made me feel connected to being alive again.

- The horse looked at me and made me stand up straight again – I had forgotten how to do this.

So me being me, thought what can I do to help?

My brother Michael (who has himself served and completed 3 tours of Afghanistan) mentioned that he was taking part in the 'Spartan Race' www.spartanrace.com in Cambridge and why didnt I do it.. so here I am all signed up for what is described as the worlds leading obstacle race.. I will be taking part in the Spartan Sprint, which is 3+ miles and 15+ obstacles, no doubt by the end il be brusied and covered in mud. 

So this is where I am asking you to all dig deep and please sponsor me, it would be great to raise some money for such a meaningful cause... even if you can only spare a £1, it all adds up....

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.