Hiking has always been an important part of my life. The sense of freedom and achievement from a long walk have encouraged me to attempt bigger and better challenges.

My year began sitting on the summit of Kilimanjaro and watching the sunrise on New Year’s Day. It was the trip of a lifetime and an incredible experience! It caused me to consider if I could use my experiences to benefit others.

With this thought in mind, I’ll be taking on an 11-day trek to Everest Base Camp in November, in aid of Cancer Research UK. My family, like so many others, have been impacted and experienced the loss of family members, friends and loved ones from this terrible disease that manifests itself in so many forms.

My Godfather underwent tests for a heart problem and was discovered to have a rare form of cancer that affects the bile ducts within the liver, stomach, pancreas and gallbladder. He passed away aged 67.

My Aunt was first diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy at the age of 32. The cancer returned, aged 57, and her second breast had to be removed. The disease spread into her bones and she passed away five years later.

Substantial advances have been made in cancer research, from early diagnosis to life extension and in lots of cases full recovery, but more needs to be done! There are still around 375,000 new cancer cases every year. Every two minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed. That someone could be someone I know, or someone you know.

My fundraising target is £4,500 and to achieve this, I'll be trekking through the Khumba Valley up to an altitude of 5,364 metres (17,598ft). I have also chosen to climb a further 181 metres to reach Kala Patther, sitting at 5,545 metres (18,192ft).

All donations towards Cancer Research UK will help make a difference to all those affected, and are greatly appreciated.

Together, we can make a difference!