On the 27 May me, and my rather large fear of heights, will be raising funds for the Myositis Support Group by abseiling 100m down the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth (that’s it in the photo!). Am I scared…you bet I am…but my fear is nothing compared to the pain, fatigue, upset and worry  that children living with Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM) live with every day.

Many of you will know that at 3 years of age my little boy, Elliot, was diagnosed with JDM (an autoimmune disease affecting the skin and muscles). Over the past 5 years we have been on an incredible journey with some great highs but many terrible lows too. We are lucky and, thanks to the great support we’ve received from our own family, friends, our nursing team and the Myositis Support Group, Elliot is currently doing really well.

In doing this challenge, I’m hoping to raise £500 which is so important to the Myositis Support Group if they are to continue helping children like Elliot and funding research into this incurable condition. Your contribution, regardless of size, is very much appreciated and will be doubled up through my employers matched giving scheme…every £1 of your money will mean £2 for the charity.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe and you'll never be sent unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money direct to the charity meaning it's an efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Please donate through this page or text GNIK74 £5 (or an amount of your choosing) to 70070.

Many, many thanks.

Catherine xx