On the 16th May, Nicole and I will be rising to the challenge of trekking in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco for 6 days, 4,200m above sea level! This is completely out of our comfort zones and will be pushing ourselves to the limit.

Spread a Smile is a charity so close to our hearts, firstly because I myself have worked for this incredible charity for 5 years and I now have the privilege of taking my therapy dog, Smartie, to visit seriously ill children in hospitals. This is unbelievably rewarding, especially when I see first hand the smiles that Smartie brings to the lives of these children who spend so much of their time in hospital. These precious moments are so important to both the children and their families. Bringing smiles and joy at such a distressing time.

Secondly, Nicole and I have known each other for almost 50 years so, it is an amazing opportunity to share a once in a life time experience while raising money for such a fantastic cause.  

Our mission at Spread a Smile is to distract seriously ill children and teenagers from the monotony of long hospital stays by spreading joy and laughter. Every year, our teams of entertainers make thousands of virtual and bedside visits, distracting children from pain and treatment, breaking the monotony of the hospital environment and creating positive memories for them, their parents and siblings. Our support also includes family events and outings, Smile TV, art workshops, painting children's radiotherapy masks and family support.