I recently attended a Lewis-Manning charity bingo night.

The first prize up for grabs … a giant Mexican cactus balloon named Manuel. Complete with sombrero.

I wanted that ridiculous balloon, far more than any adult should.

My husband Ben got a full house — victory! Manuel was practically ours.

But before Ben could claim him, he was offered a mystery prize instead. With no idea what the other prizes might be, he took the gamble.

The mystery prize turned out to be the world’s ugliest cushion.

I spent the rest of the night teasing Ben about how he’d cost me Manuel, and Manuel was eventually won by another table. I was absolutely gutted.

But then something unexpected happened. Manuel’s new owner noticed how much I adored him and made me an offer:

I could have Manuel… if I signed up for LEAP, the charity abseil for Lewis-Manning.

So here’s a photo of me, Ben and Manuel. Manuel and I will be abseiling for an amazing cause all because Ben had to take the mystery prize…..

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care provides vital support to people in our community, and I’m proud to be raising funds for the incredible work they do. Any donation, big or small, will make a real difference.

Thank you for supporting me — and Manuel.