You read that right — I’m taking on Hadrian’s Wall in honour of my Dad to raise vital funds for St David’s Hospice Care. Yes, it’s going to be tough. Yes, I’m fat. And yes, I may already be *slightly* regretting this.

I used to be a skeptic when it came to charities, but seeing the incredible care St David’s provided to my Dad first-hand changed that completely. The compassion, kindness, and support he received during his palliative care was truly outstanding — and I want to help ensure that other families who need it can experience the same care.

Every step I take along the Wall will be for Dad — and for everyone who needs the amazing support St David’s Hospice provides. Hospice care offers reassurance of round-the-clock expert care, in a friendly, welcoming environment. From managing pain to supporting emotional, spiritual, and social needs, hospice care helps people live their life to the fullest, even while facing life-limiting illness.

I’ve always wanted to walk the full 84 miles of Hadrian’s Wall, but truthfully? I wasn’t even fit enough to walk a single mile without considering mugging an asthmatic for their inhaler. I’ve started taking my health more seriously over the past year — losing 7 stone — but I still have a long way to go. I am aiming to reach my goal of losing 10 stone in total by the time the challenge comes around.

Dad was always my cheeky personal trainer: every packet of crisps, every sneaky chocolate, he would not so subtly say, “What about your diet?!” Even in hospital, while bravely battling cancer on palliative care, he’d lift one eye and waggle a finger at me whenever he caught me sneaking an off-plan snack. He was behind me every step of the way, playfully encouraging me, and now I’m going to channel all of that into every mile, every blister, every groan along Hadrian’s Wall — in his honour.

Thank you if you’ve made it this far! I hope you’ll consider sponsoring me in this slightly mad challenge. I plan to walk the full route over 5–7 days, aiming to complete it on 31st August — my 32nd birthday! Every step will be in honour of my Dad and for the amazing work of St David’s Hospice Care. Your support means the world — and will keep me moving, one slightly wobbly, very sore step at a time!