This year will be the five year anniversary since my two year old, James, died. As a bereaved mum, life goes on but you always carry this weight with you.

As an energetic, determined and ambitious person, I thought - why not climb a mountain to test my resilience, remember my son and raise some money for a good cause.

Please help me!

In September 2026, I will be taking on the challenge of climbing Kilimanjaro (the highest mountain in Africa at 5895m). I'll be travelling on my own to Tanzania and climbing with others who I have never met before.

Losing James shattered my world. In the depths of grief, Cruse Bereavement Support were there to hold space for my pain, listen without judgement and gently help me begin to piece life back together. Their compassion and guidance inspired me so much that I trained as a bereavement counsellor myself, and now Volunteer with Cruse to support other grieving families navigating the darkest moments of their lives.

Cruse does truly life changing work. Every year they support tens of thousands of children, young people, and adults through trauma of losing someone they love. Their services are free, but the demand is growing every day and they can only continue with the generosity of people like you.

By sponsoring my climb, you'll be helping Cruse continue to be there for every grieving person who needs them, giving them hope, support and a safe place to begin healing.

This climb will push me to my limits physically (at 41) and emotionally, but every step I take will be for James and for all the families who need Cruse' care in their own heartbreak.

Please donate if you can. You'll be helping me reach the summit and you'll be helping Cruse continue their incredible work.

Together, we can turn Grief into Hope.