Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

The Challenge:

I am travelling with a friend from school (Felicity Hayward) leaving on the 2nd of January to cycle for 5 months through 4 countries and a total distance of 6500km. The route is up the Western side of South America from Puerto Mont in Chile to Lima in Peru. During the trip we will be ascending over 4000m (almost as high as Mont Blanc) across the Andes mountains. We both aim to be self supported and travel every day. With some challenging terrain we are not limiting ourselves to only bikes as we may hitch hike and use public transport, but only where it is necessary. This will be a hugely physical and cultural challenge as we will be reliant on local knowledge and hospitality.

During the next 4 months Felicity and I will be doing a series of much shorter rides in preparation for the challenge and will keep you updated on training as our plans develop.

Why?

The plans for the trip came about in the stressful weeks before the first of our A level exams and also marked the year anniversary of the death of a school friend who sadly took his own life. Over the past year my outlook on mental health has changed greatly, added pressures with exams and social media awareness of oneself and friends wellbeing has become more important to me. I would like to use this trip which is both a physical and mental challenge to raise money and awareness for the charity Young Minds.

The charity Young Minds acts as a platform to educate all ages about mental health as well as offering support and advice in a range of forms. The webpage has a diverse selection of stories and opportunities to speak to people who have had similar experiences, while encouraging self care, confidence and general wellbeing.

The page and cause has a close connection with me and I would ask for your help in aiding Young Minds Trust to expand their work and facilities to help many other young teens.

Please visit Felicity's page for Epilepsy UK and read her story:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/felicity-hayward1