This challenge is completely self-funded so all donations will go directly to Millimetres to Mountains.

In June of this year I am embarking on a 3 day trek up (and down!) the highest mountain in North Africa - Mount Toubkal 4,167m (13,671 ft).

In the past this challenge would have tested my fitness. This year however, it will test my limits of endurance to a whole new level. In 2020 I had a cycling accident that left me paralysed from the neck down. Despite what I was initially told, after 17 months of rehab, from a slight flicker in my thumb, then a movement in my big toe,  I have been fortunate that constant repetitive exercises have resulted in me getting a lot more feeling and most of my movement back - including walking!

But if only that were the end of it! - the constant stiffness and pain throughout my body, the difficulties with balance, fatigue, having no temperature regulation and all the other issues that come with a spinal injury will make sure this is a real challenge. Equally one that I’m sure I will enjoy, will push my rehab even further and will, with your help, provide a brighter future for other people.

 
Millimetres to Mountains
Looking for information and inspiration in the early days of my injury, I came across the Instagram page of Ed Jackson who is a quadriplegic ex- pro rugby player, now an adventurer and co-founder of the Millimetres to Mountains Foundation @millimetres2mountains.

His open and honest account of the consequences of his spinal injury resonated with me given his attitude of pushing himself, as you don't know how much improvement is possible unless you push and find out! Even more so given he managed to climb Snowdon, a mountain I know well, despite initially being told he would not walk again.
This showed me there may yet be hope that not only could I get movement back, but I could possibly trek up a mountain once again – that mountain is to be Mount Toubkal!

Millimetres to Mountains was founded by Ed Jackson, his wife Lois and Olly Barkley with the aim to be the catalyst for positive change in people facing challenges in life. Whether it be mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, overcoming a physical disability or people who have just lost their way they believe in the power of reconnecting, both with people and nature to support individuals to redefine their own limitations and take steps to a brighter future. Please see Ed's story by following the link below:

https://www.millimetres2mountains.org/our-story/