You may or may not be aware but I am taking part in a large charity event to the Arctic. I would really appreciate it if you would sponsor me for this, I have a sponsor form with me and sit on the ground floor adjacent to the allocation team. Any amount really does count.

The challenge will take place the last week in February 2010. I have chosen to do this charity challenge for Motor Neurone Disease, which is a charity close to my heart having helped to look after my grandma 24hrs a day for 22month. This was some years ago but has been very difficult to talk about until now, as there are always questions around what the disease is and what it does to people. The disease attacks the central nervous system and is very disabling.

The challenge is 8days (7nights) and takes place in a wilderness setting with a variety of trails from the tundra lowlands to the high mountain area around Kebnekaise and Abisko national park. I will sled through the forests and across the lakes & tundra north & north west of Kiruna. There will be self-sufficient lodgings, unpredictable weather conditions and will be in charge of my own team of huskies which I will also care for morning and night. During the trip I will be camping in tents with skins, staying with a Saami family, ice fishing and building and staying in an igloo.

Thank you to those who have already sponsored me. I look forward to being able to raise a lot more.