Some challenges are about crossing a finish line.

This one is about saying thank you.

In 2021, my dad set off to referee a local football match. Like thousands of other Saturdays, it was just another game. But that day changed our family's lives forever.

During the match, he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest.

The Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance was already attending another emergency, so another incredible charity – the Leicestershire, Derbyshire & Rutland Air Ambulance – was dispatched instead. Their highly skilled crew gave my dad the advanced critical care he desperately needed and, quite simply, saved his life.

Because of them, my children still have their grandad.

Because of them, I still have my dad.

That is something I can never repay.

Today, the Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance is working to introduce a second helicopter. They cover one of the largest operational areas in the country, and demand for their service continues to grow. A second helicopter will mean they can respond to more emergencies, reach more patients when every second counts, and give more families the same chance that mine was given.

I'm taking on one of the toughest endurance events in the world – an Ironman in Wales – to help make that happen.

Anyone who knows what an Ironman involves knows it will push me to my absolute limits. There will be moments when I'll want to stop.

When those moments come, I'll remember why I'm doing this.

I'll think about my dad.

I'll think about the incredible air ambulance crew who refused to give up on him.

And I'll think about my own two children.

One of the biggest reasons I'm taking on this challenge is to show them that with determination, courage and hard work, ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things. I want them to grow up knowing that when something really matters, you don't take the easy option—you step forward and do your best to make a difference.

My goal is to raise at least £1,000 towards the £500,000 needed to bring this second helicopter into service.

Every pound donated brings that goal a little closer.

One day, the person who needs that helicopter could be someone's mum, dad, husband, wife, child… or someone you love.

Please, if you're able to, donate whatever you can. No amount is too small. Your generosity could help save a life and spare another family from unimaginable heartbreak.

My family was given a second chance.

Together, let's help give that same chance to countless others.

Thank you so much for your support.