Hi, if you're familiar with Reach then I'm sure my name will be well known to you.  I'm Sue Stokes, National Coordinator for Reach and as such I am usually responsible for all the behind the scenes administration of fundraising events.  This has been the case with all the expeditions organised by Simon Webster but so far I haven't been persuaded to take part.

In March 2009 there is to be a Trek of the Great Wall of China and I have (*nearly )decided to go along.  What do you think? Should I step out from behind my desk and walk the walk whilst at the same time raise money for Reach?  If you think I should then come on and show me, make a pledge, make a donation, sponsor me and send me to China. (I promise to come back)

As for my reason to be part of Reach, I joined way back in 1985 after the birth of my daughter Natalie who had no fingers and a very small thumb on her left hand.  My family benefited greatly from having a support network when Natalie was little and I now have the privilege to make sure that network continues for other families.

*Update - thanks to the generosity of my early sponsors I have now committed to the Trek.  I've joined the gym and am trying to visit them at least three times a week so that I'm fit enough to manage all those steps. 

**Updated update - the trek gets nearer and nearer and I'm sure they keep adding steps.   There are one or two folk out there that think I won't make it.  To those few I say put your money up front and I'll show you I can!

24 March 2009 - it's really hitting home now, the task I've set myself both in reaching my fundraising target and preparing for the trek.  Despite 15 months of  training I'm still carrying the same excess weight and I'm hoping my trips to the gym have paid off and I can get to the end.   Help me stay positive by keeping the money coming in.