On 19th November, I was rushed into Royal Preston Hospital with appendicitis. What should have been a straightforward operation turned into a fight with peritonitis after an emergency laparoscopy. I was so badly infected that I couldn't eat for 14 days and ended up spending three and a half weeks in hospital.

I finally made it home on 8th December, but recovery was far from over. I was back at the hospital every single day for IV medication, alongside oral antibiotics at home. Then, just when I thought the worst was behind me, I had an adverse reaction to my medication and was readmitted on Christmas Eve — spending Christmas Day and Boxing Day back in hospital, nil by mouth. It was pretty grim.

But here's the thing that stuck with me. On Christmas Day, while I was lying there feeling at my absolute lowest, the team at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals brought me a Christmas gift. Such a simple thing, but it meant the world.

Now, three months on, I'm finally getting back on my feet and I want to say thank you — not just with words, but by doing something that genuinely terrifies me.

I'm abseiling 128ft down Peel Tower.

I'm absolutely terrified of heights. The thought of going over that edge makes my stomach flip. But after everything the team at Royal Preston Hospital did for me, a bit of fear feels like a small price to pay.

Every penny raised will go to Lancashire Teaching Hospitals Charity, helping them continue to provide the extras that make such a difference to patients — specialist equipment, patient comforts, and yes, those Christmas gifts that remind you someone cares when you need it most.

Whether you can spare £2 or £20, it all adds up and it all makes a difference. Thank you for your support — wish me luck (I'm going to need it)!