At 71 Im proud to say Im still a little crazy and at first glance choosing to do the Liffey Descent would seem to be proof!

But this year Im doing it for a really good cause. Facing the World was founded by a surgeon that I know to offer life changing facial reconstruction surgery to children with severe facial disfigurements who are unable to access the surgery they need in their own countries. These children are remarkable, increadibly couragous in the face of severe predjudice (some of them have even been stoned and beaten up because of their faces). They are so brave - one of them refused painkillers after surgery because she said "she had received enough from the charity and they should give the medicine to the other children" Amazing at any age, but particularly as she was only 9 at the time! During the time that they are in London they not only transform physically, but also psychologically from shy scared children (who usually have never had friends or gone to school) into the confident young people that they should always have been allowed to do. As one in 200 people arround the world are born with a facial difference, its a great charity.

As  you may know, the Liffey which runs through Dublin is the source of Jameson Whisky and so out of bounds for people. But once a  year it is dammed and then all the water released to create one of Europe's most exciting and demanding canoeing events. Approximately twelve hundred canoeists from arround the world will once again challenge the river in the hope of beating it's 10 infamous weirs, that test every competitors skill, strength, stamina and humour.

(Of course I am a British Canoe Union Coach so its not as crazy as its sounds)

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Facing the World will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

So please sponsor me now!

Many thanks for your support.