On Sunday 17th October I returned home having completed a 5 day trek across the Masai Volcanoes in the Rift Valley Tanzania. Through the pain, exhaustion, sleep deprivation and even a tornado, yes, I really did say a tornado; I am delighted and proud to say that I successfully completed the trek.

Many of you will already know my reasons for taking part in such a crazy adventure, however for those who do not; I did so in order to raise much needed funds for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice in North Staffordshire, a cause very close to my and my family’s hearts.

Before taking part in the trek I wrote “Anyone who knows me will understand how hard this will be, I’m no athlete, I’m a 20-year-old Education student, born and bred in Grassy Green Lane, Audley. For years I was one of those children who used every excuse in the book to escape the dreaded PE lessons. “Sir I’ve forgotten my PE kit”, “Miss, I don’t feel very well”. In addition to this I have recently undergone and recovered from two major leg realignment operations, and remain under the supervision of specialist orthopaedic surgeons.” Little did I really know how difficult the trek would really be. I was prepared, to an extent at least for the blistering heat that we would encounter, and the possibility of a couple of rain clouds here and there, but never hail and thunderstorms, and to top it off a tornado, probably one of the most terrifying things that I have ever experienced.

The trek was tough, the pain was great and the experience was out of this world.

I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has already donated or sponsored me. I am overwhelmed by the support that I have received and continue to receive and it means the world both to myself and my family. Thank you.

If you are able to spare a penny or two, please dig deep and sponsor me. Every penny donated really does make a difference to somebody’s life. Just giving is 100% secure and every penny raised will go directly to the Douglas Macmillan. Please don’t forget gift aid if you are a UK tax payer. Many many thanks.

Please do note that I funded the trip myself, everything from flights to food to accommodation, albeit tents were paid for in full by myself. Every single penny that I have raised has gone and will continue to go straight to the Dougie Mac.

For more information please visit the Douglas MacMillan website: http://www.dmhospice.org.uk/