In a few days’ time, I will attempt to run 250km in six days across a swath of the Sahara as part of the Marathon Des Sables.  There is a long list of reasons why I’ve got myself into this predicament, but there is a much shorter list which I will turn to in the difficult moments (which I expect to measure in days rather than minutes).  At the very top of that list, is raising much needed funds for WellChild and also contributing to the humanitarian crisis as a result of events in Ukraine.

How you can support:

1. Donate to WellChild through this page.
2. Sign up to Oliver’s Step Up challenge as a team or individual https://www.wellchild.org.uk/support-us/fundraise/stepup/ (further details below).
3. It’s impossible to raise funds for children in the UK, without also thinking about Children impacted by the Ukraine crisis at this time. For that reason, for every team/individual that signs up to complete the Step Up Challenge, I will make a personal contribution to the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Red Cross appeal.   So get going!
4. Keep your fingers crossed for colder than average days, warmer than average nights and that the kids don’t notice I’ve borrowed their bucket and spade…

WellChild is the UK’s national charity for seriously ill children. The charity’s key objective is working to ensure that all children and young people in the UK living with serious health needs have the best chance to thrive – properly supported at home with their families.

Having raised funds once before for WellChild, I am certain their cause is greater than ever.  Income for WellChild was down by almost 35% in 2021 - mostly due to cancellation or postponement of nearly all fundraising events.  Furthermore, WellChild’s Covid Direct Response Service provided emergency support for children, young people and families whilst attempting to maintain as much planned core work as possible.  It was relied upon by thousands of families, often those with vulnerable children and invariably those deeply affected by the pandemic.

I am so grateful for every pound you can donate, it will make a huge difference to seriously ill children and their families. 

I am only able to attempt an event like this because of the support I get from my fantastic family, friends, colleagues and clients (and the team at Brighton University Environmental Extremes Lab!) - a huge thank you to all of you.

I will post a tracking link here if one becomes available - and I’m feeling more prepared than currently!

Oliver’s 257km Step Up Challenge

Join me in running the same distance and take on Oliver’s Step Up Challenge! 

Oliver’s Step Up Challenge is a virtual challenge of 257km, over whatever timeframe and using whatever mode of self-powered transport you want, from your front door.  Once you’ve completed the distance, you’ll receive a medal lovingly designed by Oliver!

Nine-year-old Oliver has alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC), an ultra-rare condition affecting less than one in a million people. It causes episodes of weakness in every muscle in Oliver’s body, from arms and legs to his breathing, and can last anywhere from a couple of hours to days. Some episodes he never fully recovers from.

Oliver’s condition means that on a regular basis him and his family have to travel the 257km roundtrip from Southampton to see the only specialist for his condition in the country at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. Oliver has to miss a day of school to attend his appointments and the journey has a big impact on the whole family. WellChild want to raise awareness of the distances young children like Oliver have to travel for their care and the impact this has on their families.  

To find out more and sign up to this Step Up Challenge visit: https://www.wellchild.org.uk/support-us/fundraise/stepup/