1 in 5 of us will develop a lung condition during our lifetime. There's a new diagnosis every minute.

I'm fundraising for Asthma + Lung UK. They’re the only UK charity that fights for everyone’s right to breathe. Every pound I'm able to raise will take us a step closer to a world where everyone has healthy lungs.

Just £22 allows one of Asthma + Lung UK’s nurses to answer a call on the Helpline, offering potentially lifesaving advice. I'd be very grateful for any donations you could make!

My dad was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis in 1998. At the time he was given a life expectancy of 3-5 years, however he refused to accept this and he died in February 2024, some 35 years later. His stubbornness and refusal to give up along with the excellent work by NHS staff and British Lung foundation helped us to enjoy those last 35 years with him.

I loved sharing activities with him, we rode motorcycles together, he showed me how to repair cars, and we worked together at his engineering company for 15 years. Now I work as an outdoor instructor/canoe leader and coach and often guide trips on the Caledonian Canal through Scotland, usually for 5 days at a time. My dad would have loved to do one of these trips with me and I do regret we never got the chance.

So in memory of my dad and to help others in a similar position to get as much quality time together as possible I’m fundraising for Asthma and Lung UK. To do this I’m going to attempt the 100km of Caledonian canal from fort William to Inverness through the canal system, Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and the huge Loch Ness. I’m going to attempt this solo and aim to complete within 24 hours.

Please help me to raise funds for this worthwhile cause.