Welcome to my JustGiving page!

In September, I'll be taking on the challenge of cycling from London to Paris – covering around 180 miles through Newhaven, Dieppe and Beauvais before hopefully crossing the finish line in Paris – to raise money for The Brain Charity.

This challenge is particularly meaningful to me for personal reasons.

In 2024, I suffered a head injury which led to more than 12 months of Post-Concussion Syndrome. The impact was far greater than I ever expected, affecting both my personal life and my ability to work. As someone who runs a business and is used to juggling multiple responsibilities, it was a difficult and often frustrating experience that gave me a new appreciation for the challenges faced by people living with neurological conditions.

More recently, I received a diagnosis of neurodivergence. Like many people diagnosed later in life, I have spent time since reflecting on how my brain works and understanding both the challenges and strengths that come with it. In many ways, the diagnosis has helped me better appreciate the things I value most about the way I think: the ability to spot patterns and connections, immerse myself in complex problem-solving, and see the bigger picture. Combined with a strong sense of fairness and justice, these qualities have shaped both my career and the way I approach the world. At the same time, it has helped me to better understand and accept some of the areas I find more challenging, recognising that they are simply part of how my brain works rather than shortcomings that need to be fixed.

That's why The Brain Charity feels like such a fitting cause to support.

The Brain Charity helps people affected by all forms of neurological condition to lead longer, healthier and happier lives. With more than 600 conditions affecting the brain, spine and nervous system, they are the only UK charity supporting every neurological condition. They also champion neurodiversity and work to create a more inclusive society, free from stigma, hardship and isolation.

Many inspiring people, including environmental campaigners such as Chris Packham and Greta Thunberg, have spoken openly about how being neurodivergent has shaped who they are and contributed to their success. Greta has described her autism as a "superpower", and while everyone's experience is different, I am gradually learning to recognise and embrace some of the strengths that can come from thinking differently.

If you'd like to support both the challenge and this fantastic charity, I'd be incredibly grateful for any donation, however large or small.

Thank you for your support!