I am putting myself through the challenge of completing the
6 day, 251km, desert ultramarathon to raise funds for The Not Forgotten Association. Over six days competitors of the Marathon des Sables, which takes place in the Sahara, must endure sand
storms and blazing sun whilst covering a distance equivalent to six normal marathons, camping out at night on the desert floor, and surviving on only what they can fit in a backpack which they must carry as they run. To prepare for this challenge I’ve been running, trying to get my feet prepared for the torture ahead, figuring out which dehydrated meal packs are actually edible, and more running.

The Not Forgotten Association is a charity which works with
veterans and their families to provide opportunities to boost morale, restore confidence, and give back the sense of camaraderie that many servicemen and women miss after leaving the forces, particularly if their leaving has been due to illness or injury. This charity isn’t just about group meetings, or sending out newsletters, the Not Forgotten Association truly understands the needs of the people they support, people who need adventure and challenge, and who might not be the best at asking for help if they’re struggling. Beneficiaries are
invited to go on incredible trips where the focus is letting people discover their strengths through challenges such as skiing in Colorado, canoeing in France and the annual veteran’s games hosted in Israel. The charity also facilitates a host of social events, including regular garden parties at Buckingham palace- wonderful occasions for veterans to feel valued in ways they may never experience in their day to day lives.

After being medically discharged in 2019, the charity gave me opportunities I didn’t even realise I needed.
Being a beneficiary of the Not Forgotten Association has been truly life changing, not just for me, but for my family too. They have made me and my family feel cared for and supported, and I am completely indebted to them for the support they have given me during a difficult time. I want to do my bit to show my appreciation by taking on this challenge in the hopes of raising money to help them continue the amazing work they do.

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