This year, I’m taking on the incredible challenge of trekking to Everest Base Camp, in order to raise awareness and essentials funds for PTSD UK, which is the only charity in the UK dedicated to raising awareness of post-traumatic stress disorder, no matter the trauma that caused it. This cause is deeply personal to me and as someone with a lived experience of Complex PTSD, I know first-hand the challenge of receiving a diagnosis and accessing trauma-informed treatment. Without the help of PTSD UK, I may never have gained the education and insight required to seek the support I so desperately needed.

Anyone who knows me will know that I am not a typical outdoorsy type and you will not generally find me hiking on the weekend for fun! The trek to Everest Base Camp will take place over the course of 12 days and I will be navigating challenging terrains and trekking up to altitudes of 5,500m. This challenge will push far beyond my comfort zone in many ways, both emotionally and physically, especially as I was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis less than 2 years ago, which rendered me incapacitated for 3 months. Since then, I have been on a journey of physical recovery and learning to adjust to life with an autoimmune condition.

However, this trek is not just about challenging myself. It is about giving back to the charity that has helped me to understand my mental health symptoms and given me the confidence to seek a diagnosis and begin the process of healing. It is my hope that by joining this trek and sharing my story, I will raise awareness of PTSD, debunk myths, reduce stigma and raise essential funds for much-needed research to improve treatments for those suffering with the debilitating effects of trauma.

My goal is to raise a total of £3,300, with 70% of donations helping to cover various aspects of the trip, whilst the remaining 30% will be received by PTSD UK. Any amount, big or small, will make a difference but if you can’t donate, please consider sharing this page—increasing awareness of PTSD is just as important! I thank you with all my heart for your support.