Very rarely in life does one come across a humble and truly inspirational person. On Thursday 13th December 2018 I had the pleasure to meet a Budgens colleague and athlete who, having battled MS is already a British Paralympic champion. I am delighted to be supporting Stephanie Millward MBE on her journey to the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo.

Stephanie (37) from Box, Wiltshire is a self funded athlete working flexible shifts in Budgens to allow her to maintain a swimming fitness, whilst earning a living to pay her bills and continue to train. Stephanie is attempting to secure an 11th Paralympic medal; having won 5 at London 2012 and a further 5 in Rio 2016, including 2 Gold. She now aims to become Paralympic Champion in the S9 400m Freestyle in Tokyo 2020.

Many will be unaware, but as a youngster, Stephanie was a swimming prodigy and the British 100m Backstroke Champion aged 15. Within 2 years and just before the Olympic Games in Sydney, she was diagnosed with MS, aged just 17.

For the next 20 years, she has been through the lowest lows and some incredible highs. Her story of overcoming incredible personal challenges and resilience is inspirational and a real lesson to us all. I'm delighted to support Stephanie in her quest to reach the Games in Japan in 2 years - capping a magnificent swimming career.

Stephanie's amazing story so far, of an athlete's battle with MS to win Paralympic glory is told in her book 'PAYING the PRICE'

#GoStephanie - we are all really proud of you.