On June 20th, I’ll be standing at the top of the Heartlands Hospital main block in Birmingham, looking down. Anyone who knows me knows that I have a genuine fear of heights—but I’m stepping over that edge for a reason that means everything to me.

Why I’m Doing This

I am taking on this abseil in loving memory of my sister, Roumana Saleem-butt. We lost Roumana in 2018 to respiratory complications when she was just 38 years old. This June, she would have celebrated her 46th birthday. As that date approaches, I wanted to do something significant to honor her life and her spirit.

A Personal Debt of Gratitude

This cause is also deeply personal to my own journey. In 2019, I found myself in a bed at Heartlands fighting pneumonia. During those four days, I saw firsthand the incredible work the NHS staff do. They provide world-class care despite being under-resourced and stretched to their limits. They helped me get back on my feet, and now I want to help them do the same for others.

Where Your Donations Go

I am raising funds specifically for the Respiratory Ward and ICU at Heartlands Hospital. The money we raise together will go directly toward:

• New machinery and diagnostic equipment to help staff work more effectively.

• Enhanced patient care for those fighting serious lung and breathing conditions.

• Vital resources for a department that saves lives every single day.

How You Can Help

I’ve decided to give up my time and face my biggest fear to ensure that other families have more time together. If you are able to sponsor me—no matter the amount—it would mean the world to me and the team at Heartlands.

Thank you for helping me turn a difficult anniversary into a chance to give back.