In early 2026, having turned 30 last year, I made a commitment to myself to reclaim my mental and physical health. What started as a personal challenge has become a journey of growth, resilience and self-discovery. To mark how far I've come, I've signed up for what will be the biggest challenge of my life so far: The Kirkwood's Great Wall of China 40th Anniversary Trek.

In October 2027, I will take on 36km across the Great Wall of China over five days. The trek will involve thousands of steps, steep ascents, challenging terrain and sections that feel almost vertical. It will push me physically and mentally every single day, but that's exactly why I'm doing it.

The challenge represents everything this journey has been about: proving to myself that we are capable of more than we think, even when the path ahead feels impossible.

But this trek is about much more than personal achievement.

I was introduced to The Kirkwood through my work at Ridley & Hall when the daughter of a colleague needed the charity's support. Seeing the difference compassionate, specialist care can make to families during their most difficult moments left a lasting impression on me.

Over the years, many of my colleagues, their families and people in our wider community have been supported by The Kirkwood. Their care, guidance and support help people navigate some of life's most challenging times with dignity, comfort and compassion.

Previously, I completed a skydive to raise funds for Maggie's Cancer Charity, another organisation that supported my colleague's family. This time, I want to give back to The Kirkwood and honour everyone I know who has benefited from their incredible work.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help The Kirkwood continue supporting local people and families when they need it most.

So as I take on one of the world's most iconic landmarks, I'm asking for your support. If you've ever overcome a challenge, been helped by kindness, or simply believe that nobody should face their hardest days alone, please consider donating.

Together, we can make every step count.

Thank you for your support,

Jess