MY CHALLENGE

In mid October, I will attempt to complete 7 sprint triathlons over 7 consecutive days, all before 9am. In total, that means seven 750m swims, seven 20km bike rides and seven 5km runs across London. While it may seem like an excessive commute, it is all for a terrific cause.

MY CAUSE

Last year, 1,875 UK regular armed forces personnel were medically discharged - roughly five people every day, each facing the loss of a career and purpose built around the military. Supporting Wounded Veterans (SWV) helps them rebuild: regaining their independence, managing chronic pain, and finding their footing in civilian life through mentoring, career coaching, networking and practical support.

Right now, 90% of veterans who complete an SWV programme go on to a positive outcome. I hope to try to make this 100%!

WHAT IT MEANS TO ME

One of SWV's programmes, ‘SkiHabilitation Week’, takes veterans to the Alps for a week of sit-skiing and everything the mountains have to offer.

I am delighted to have been offered a place as a volunteer buddy on the March 2027 week. To take my place, however, I need to raise at least £2,500 – every penny of which will go directly towards funding a veteran’s place for the week. (I'm covering all of my own costs including travel/accommodation/ski pass, so your donation goes entirely to them.)

This cause is particularly meaningful to me as the wife of a Royal Marine, and the daughter and granddaughter of Royal Navy and Army veterans. I suspect it will also resonate with many of you who have your own connections to service, too.

HOW TO SUPPORT ME

If you would like to give a veteran the chance to take part in this life-changing week, I'd be hugely grateful for your support. You can donate here via Just Giving, or if you prefer to give through CAF:

1. Ctrl + Click this link to log into CAF: Together, we give more | Charities Aid Foundation

2. Select Manage donations → Make a donation

3. Search for "Supporting Wounded Veterans Ltd" (Charity No. 1149727)

4. Select Donate and choose CAF as your payment method

5. Tick "I'm sponsoring a friend" and enter:

1. Name: Aurora Seely

2. Email: aurora.seely@hoaresbank.co.uk

Thank you so much for reading this far, and for any support you can offer - I hugely appreciate it.