The Brain Tumour Charity is the world's leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we're moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour.

We're set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And we're doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can't wait.

Last year a work colleague told me about the support she and her family received from the Brain Tumour Charity when her son required treatment. After an initial discussion and some thorough research, I knew that this was a charity that makes an immediate difference and investigates new treatments in the medical field of brain tumours. It left me wondering, “How can I help?”. Within the website were ways to donate and the standout way that I could see was to do the Brain Tumour Charity, Machu Picchu Trek. After establishing all the facts and what was involved, I was hooked!

It will be my Sixtieth birthday in 2024 and what better way to reach that landmark than by completing the Machu Picchu Trek in the year of my BIG birthday.

And so, my dream was launched. I applied for the trek and the application was accepted. As a birthday present with the help of my family we paid the full registration fee. I did this for two very special reasons. Firstly, I knew by paying the full registration I cannot back out and secondly but most importantly, it means that the trip is fully funded and all the funds I raise, whatever amount, will go directly to the Brain Tumour Charity and not to finance my trek.

The Charity have kindly supplied me with an arduous training programme that I can complete twice before I venture out. So, I have no excuse not to complete the challenge comfortably! (LOL)

I have set up a fundraising page, which means that all monies donated will go directly to the charity and I cannot emphasis enough, that all funds will go the charity and will not be used to top up any fees I have paid.

For those following I will post every so often on this page and I am also opening a Strava account which will link into the JustGiving page to let you know how my training is going (for anyone who needs a good laugh!). It is going to be a nerve-wrecking eight months for me. I have never even camped before – don’t know if I should try before I go or let it be a happy surprise.

This challenge is going to be so rewarding and I am proud that The Brain Tumour Charity is allowing me to participate.

What an experience it will be!

Anticipated thanks to all who donate any monies for this cause.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving, they will neither sell them on, nor send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they will send the monies directly to the charity. Making it the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

From the bottom of my heart – THANK YOU.