If you know me, then you know that I am not at all fit and active - I was born with a club foot (Left Talipes) that has required lots of surgery during my life. During the most recent surgery in 2016, my left ankle was fused completely and I have lots of metalwork, bolts and staples holding my ankle together. I also have a curved spine and one leg shorter than the other due to this condition. 

In March this year, I lost my beautiful brother in a tragic cycling accident whilst he was training hard to compete in The Ironman. He is my inspiration! 

In memory of him, and despite my physical challenges, I’ve thrown myself into getting fit and setting some physical goals. I start my challenging adventures with Greg’s spirit by my side by undertaking the following: Climbing Mam Tor (25th August 2022) and Kinder Scout (date tbc). In 2023 I will swim open water (1.5km) in a relay triathlon and will climb the Yorkshire Three Peaks. In 2024 I will embark on the National Three Peaks. All of which I would never have dreamed myself capable a few months ago. 

Everything I do will be in memory of my wonderful, beautiful, and kind brother - Greg Strachey - who was passionate about the transformative power of exercise on mental health. Something I am benefitting from myself during this period of grief. 

Before Greg passed away, he committed to raise money for Raising Health by cycling Ride London 2022. The money raised would be used to build a gym at Stewart House. 

Stewart House is a rehabilitation inpatient unit providing care for patients who have severe and enduring mental illness and is part of Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust where I work as a Senior Manager. A gym is invaluable in helping the patients of Stewart house to rehabilitate and become well again. 

Unfortunately, Greg didn't take part in the ride, but his fellow Manchester Triathlon Team mate, Greg Godley, rode in his memory and started the ball rolling with this fundraising and has already raised over £2,000!

I am committed to "be more Greg", live his legacy and ensure that we raise enough money to build this gym in his memory. I will do this by getting myself fit and healthy and undertaking challenges that I never thought I could, or would, do. 

I'm doing this for you Greg and I know you will be with me every step of the way xx

Raising Health is the charity of Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, providing community & mental health services across Leicestershire & Rutland. Your donation will fund equipment and projects over & above what's possible within NHS budgets, namely The Stewart House Gym.