To mark my 50th year on Earth I'm taking part in an expedition to climb Island Peak in Nepal. As part of the trip I'll be also be reaching Everest Base Camp. Island Peak known locally as Imja Tse stands at 6165m above sea level and was first climbed by the team including Tenzing Norgay as part of their preparation for the first ascent of Everest in 1953. For me this is my Everest and a long held ambition since I started climbing and mountaineering.

BCHC Charity's mission is to enhance patient experience and improve their time within the care of BCHC services by funding the extras that are not covered by the core NHS funds. As a proud member of staff for BCHC NHS Foundation Trust, I'm hoping to raise some funds on the back of this for the services provided by the Adult and Specialist Rehabilitation Division. BCHC is part of the fabric of Birmingham's community and the NHS. We all come to a point in our lives where we need it to be there for us. Any donations of any value will be gratefully received and will go in full to the BCHC charity. I am fully funding the whole trip myself.

BCHC Charity's mission is to enhance patient experience and improve their time within the care of BCHC services by funding the extras that are not covered by the core NHS funds. We have launched this appeal in order to raise funds to support the Adult & Specialist Rehabilitation services with the sorts of things that bring a smile to our patients and their families and carers, and can range from smaller things like books, toys, and toiletries all the way up to huge projects like our therapeutic playground for children with prosthetic limbs. Here’s how your support could make a difference for our A&SR services:

• £10 could fund a selection of crafts supplies for inpatient entertainment

• £50 could provide bereavement support items, such as a Bereavement Memory Box, for a family whose loved one is accessing end of life care

• £100 could support people with limited hand function by providing a selection of Eazy Hold silicone adaptive grip aids

• £1,000 could provide a communication aid for the INRU ward to allow patients to be more independent and empowered during assessment and treatment

• £5,000 could provide a therapy bike for a ward to help patients redevelop muscles, restore motion to joints and improve cardiovascular function

By donating to or fundraising for the A&SR appeal, you will be helping BCHC Charity to make a real difference for patients, service users, and their families and carers.