"EVERYONE DESERVES A CHANCE TO THRIVE"

Sense International is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to supporting people with deafblindness and their families around the world.

The charity identifies children with deafblindness as early as possible in life so that, with the right support, they are able to thrive. Through access to quality education and vocational training, children and young people with deaf blindness can become independent, establish a livelihood, and meet their full potential. Sense International operates in eight countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Peru and Romania.

My personal passion for this cause started more than 10 years ago initially as just a supporter. In November 2018 I was part of a group of 27 people who trekked to Annapurna Base Camp , Nepal. It was at that time, that I witnessed first hand the incredible work that Sense International do , seeing deaf blind children communicating through tapping and sign language.

I then visited India in my in March 2022 where I saw not only teachers in training but also live classrooms with small children who were sensory impaired being taught . I also saw young adults working making simple items like paper bags and packaging materials working together and supporting one another. The joy of seeing the care and love and dedication of both the staff and children was deeply moving .

This time I will be taking on a new personal trekking challenge with Action Challenge our group are trekking Druk Path Bhutan approximately 52km in 5 days. The challenge will not be the walking mix terrain tracks/hills for 7 /8hours /day , but the altitude which begins at 3000m rising up to up to 4300m and potentially changing weather conditions. The way I look at it that "its just 5 days of putting myself out of all my comforts " but how much of a difference any funds I raise could make to support deafblind individuals to go on to live better lives. I will be covering the costs of the trek and all funds raised will go to the charity.

Deafblind people are some of the most marginalised in society and the work that Sense International support is truly changing lives for the better.

Together we can build a brighter future for people with deafblindness. Together we can ensure no one is left behind.