In September 2021, my husband and I were involved in a hit and run on the M5 late at night returning from a wedding we'd been working at. To be blunt, it wasn't the kind of accident that either of us should have survived, however someone decided that day wasn't our day to die. As well as some damage to my head and legs, I suffered a degloving of my upper arm and after being cut out of the wreckage, was taken to hospital by ambulance; the paramedics were nothing short of incredible that night. I don't remember much of events that unfolded that night but I do remember being sat in the ambulance for well over an hour waiting for a bed to come free and I remember just how frustrated the paramedics were.

Having worked in the public sector as a teacher before starting my own business, I know only too well what working with crippled budgets and with the expectation to do more with less is like. However, the kids I taught weren't in a life of death situation if I couldn't afford more equipment in my department; I cannot imagine the toil on the mental health of those who are saving lives daily in emergency situations, being expected to do more, with less. This is why I have decided to raise money for TASC while walking the Coast to Coast solo this September - two years on from the accident - around 190 miles from St Bees to Robin Hood's bay. The walk will take 11 days, taking me across the Lake District, into the Yorkshire Dales (via Kirkby Stephen where we live where I'll pop home for a brew and a bath!) and over the North York Moors with over 6000m of ascent. While I consider myself a reasonably well seasoned walker, I haven't ever walked 20 mile days several days in succession and I am still returning to my pre-accident fitness... so this is no small undertaking!

TASC, The Ambulance Staff charity is the leading UK charity supporting current and retired Ambulance Staff and their families, regardless of role, to enhance their mental and physical well-being during times of need. Ambulance Staff dedicate their lives to supporting and saving others. They see life at its most fragile, often dealing with tragedy on a daily basis. Sometimes they themselves are in need of care and support. Our support enhances their well-being during times of need by helping to alleviate pain, suffering and financial hardship.

I appreciate that times are hard for everyone but I guess our accident reminded me that you just don't know when you'll need a paramedic; they are absolute heroes and supporting my adventure (and training for it while juggling wedding season!) you'll be helping some of the hardest workers in the room when they need it most.

Thank you!