On 23 May 2020, what would have been our wedding day, I will attempt to climb the equivalent height of Snowdon, Ben Nevis and Scafell Pike on my home staircase.  That's a whopping 1,310 flights (17,030 steps), up and down.  Having carried out a practice session of 100 flights I can ensure you this will not be an easy challenge.  Please carry on reading to find out why I have decided to do this... 

When Iain proposed last year it was an extremely emotional occasion. Iain's wonderful Mum (Margaret Carr) had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and we knew we didn't have much time left together.  Prompted by Margaret gifting me her engagement ring, we wanted her to know of our plans, that we were happy and committed.   At the same time, we were devastated that we would be unable to arrange our wedding in time for her to be with us on our Wedding day.

After a brave and inspirational fight Margaret sadly passed away on 6 May 2019.  Not once did she complain or feel sorry for herself.  Her only concerns (as they had been throughout her life), was for those she loved dearly and was leaving behind.

Iain and I made the decision to book our wedding for 23 May 2020, as well as saying our 'I do's' we planned to celebrate Margaret's life and include her in all of our plans, so that she would indeed be a part of our special day.  From our reception venue (the home where she lived with husband David), to our readings, music and flowers, Margaret was to be remembered in our plans. Many tears have been shed along the way, especially the day I went to choose my dress, an experience I had hoped we would have shared together.

Throughout her fight, Macmillan provided vital support to Margaret and David so we decided to take the opportunity to raise funds for them as a way to say thank you. We had asked our guests to consider a donation to Macmillan in replace of a wedding gift and the day after our wedding the marquee was to be used to host a fundraiser event.  80 tickets had been sold for an afternoon of entertainment and a three course meal (cooked by family and friends), with proceeds all going to Macmillan. 

Due to coronavirus, and the need to keep everyone safe, our wedding and fundraising event have had to be postponed.

Whilst we can rearrange our wedding day, I didn't want to miss the opportunity to remember Margaret and to raise funds for Macmillian Cancer Support.  Funds that are needed more than ever, cancer is scary enough but now those with cancer, and their families, are also dealing with the impact of coronavirus on their treatment and care.  Macmillan are doing a great job of supporting those individuals but many of their fundraising initiatives have had to be cancelled and charity shops have had to close, resulting in a reduction of income.

The idea of the Three Peak Challenge was inspired by the fact that shortly after her diagnosis, Margaret completed her 100th walk with David and their walking friends by climbing to the top of Ecton Hill in the Peak District (see profile photo).  Before her diagnosis Margaret had loved her walks - walking many miles each week - her great love for walking, the great outdoors and her strong determination meant that not even cancer and a neck brace was going to prevent her completing that walk!  This is a story we plan to tell ourselves and her grandchildren, time and time again, especially when something feels difficult or seemingly impossible.

As Lockdown prevents me from travelling to Snowdon, Ben Nevis and Scafell Pike I will be climbing the equivalent height on my staircase.  To complete the challenge I will need to climb my stairs 1,310 times (17,030 steps) within 24 hours.  When finished I will celebrate with a glass of Champagne, as Margaret did at the top of Ecton Hill.  I may even do this challenge whilst wearing a veil - you will have to tune in via Facebook Live to see!

I know that for many money is tight right now and there are many worthwhile fundraising initiatives taking place.  However, if you are able to spare even a very small amount or just support this event by sharing and cheering me on I would be so very grateful.

Thank you.

Stay safe and well everyone.

Therese