So, in a fit of what I can only describe as blind optimism, I've signed up to do something I have never done before: a three-day trek in a treacherous mountain region. I don't have much (any) trekking experience, or mountain experience, and my current idea of exercise is getting up mid-chapter to grab another bag of Haribo. And yet, here I am embarking on a death-defying walk in aid of Marie Curie. Why?

Well, partly it's because I'm at a funny age where doing things I've never done before apparently becomes very appealing. And partly it's because I am hoping to encounter a yeti or at least a snow dragon. But mostly it's because I undertook a lot of research into cancer when I wrote the character of Emily in my book, 'Instructions for a Second-hand Heart', and I know what it does, how much support is needed for cancer sufferers and their families, and I am keen to do something, however small, to help. Plus did I mention the snow dragons?

So please do donate if you can. I am going to have to train for this - really train, not just watch Body Boss videos on Instagram. I will have to buy proper hiking boots, because my Converse just aren't going to cut it. I might even break a nail as I trek and you all know what a disaster that would be. It is going to be DIFFICULT. Please do make it worth my while and help me to raise as much as I can for Marie Curie. They honestly have no idea what they have let themselves in for by taking me along...