Well in a temporary moment of insanity, I have signed myself up for a 100km trek across the Sahara Desert in October 2010!  Yes, I can hear you murmur "Is she insane?" and if I was in your position, I would be thinking the same thing.  However, I hope that when you read on, you will understand my reasons.

My inspiration is quite simply a friend by the name of Stuart McGrath who was Acting Sarjeant in 2nd Battalion, The Rifles.  Stuart was tragically killed whilst serving in Afghanistan on 16 September 2009 at the age of 28 years.

I had the pleasure and privilege of Stuart's friendship for 6 years.  His love for life, humour and sense of fun was utterly infectious.  Stuart was an intelligent, energetic, fiercely driven individual and immensely proud to have served his Country.  His upbeat attitude never ceased to amaze me, even in the toughest situations he faced, he maintained a positive outlook.

As I said previously, people who know me are likely to think I have lost my mind and since signing up for this challenge, I have thought the same on a couple of occasions!!  As a girl that can get puffed out running up three flights of stairs, this trek is a mammoth challenge for me but I hope the fact that it is taking me so far out of my comfort zone indicates just how close to my heart this cause is.

Although there are many worthy causes, I have chosen Help for Heroes.  The charity was launched in October 2007 by Bryn and Emma Parry who, after a moving visit to the Selly Oak hospital, wanted to provide help and support to those injured whilst serving in the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts.

I appreciate that times have been somewhat tough recently but I would ask you to please, please dig deep in aid of this worthy cause.  Please also remember when making your donations to tick the "gift aid" box, every little bit really does make a difference.

Lastly for those of you know knew Stuart, all I need say is "bring the rain".