After a rather spontaneous (and unsuccessful) attempt to climb Mount Kenya with our (soon to be) best man Crofty in 1988, Rich always thought he might like to have another go. Sadly this was not to be - our family trip to Kenya in 2013 was incredible but with the five kids in tow (our youngest was only 8) we had other priorities, including catching up with old friends, going on safari and chilling at the beach.

This year - I am going to do the climb in Rich's memory.

To celebrate a longstanding friendship that spans almost 20 years, 11 girl friends who first met in Bahrain are reuniting in Nairobi and climbing Mount Kenya together. We celebrated our 40ths in style in the Middle East with Carnival, Bollywood & Abba Parties and now, as we all get to grips with our 50s, and collectively cope with more than our fair share of the challenges life throws at us, we are doing this thing together!

Each member of the team will be supporting a cause close to their hearts. I will be fundraising for Challenge 51, which was set up in memory of Rich who died of bowel cancer in December 2018, aged 51. The money I raise will go to the Research and Education Fund at the Primrose Oncology Unit at Bedford Hospital. This was where Rich received the majority of his cancer treatment under Professor Rob Thomas. Research is crucial to find a cure for cancer, to improve treatment options and to end the suffering of cancer patients and their loved ones.

Ultimately, our aim is to raise £51,000 in Rich's honour for 3 charities, with family and friends undertaking 51 challenges between us and we are well on the way to reaching our target. Please spare whatever you can to help propel me up Mount Kenya, remember Rich and his love of adventure, and help us get to £51,000. Thank you.