Springboard - the charity I work for - is celebrating an amazing forty years this year! I have been involved with Springboard as a parent, a trustee and now as an employee. It was my safe place during tricky Daniel times and I now enjoy the privilege of giving back, paying it forward. It's fair to say that Springboard is very important to me.

Springboard has set a 'Forty Challenge' allowing individuals to set their own 'forty' challenge this year. I am challenging myself to walk at least a mile each day for forty consecutive days but aiming to walk 64 miles in total. Why 64? The setting I work in has 16 children and four key workers - 16x4=64.

Challenges are so personal. Although my challenge may sound easy to some, those people who know me well will know that it is a huge challenge to me! I have bucked against exercise all my life. Maybe the fallout of 1980's school changing rooms and being the girl with a huge scar on her leg..... Or the fallout of an increasingly limited range of movement and pain from my hip over the years.... However, I am determined to cherish the gift that the NHS gave me in 2024. A new hip is no small gift both financially (hip replacements cost approximately £15,000) and emotionally. It has been life changing for me.

So, I have begun to walk more and keep that hip fluid. However, for those who know us well - I will never become a runner, like Giacomo! Although, I have been known to join him for a parkrun at Severn Bridge. A 'parkwalk' for me but still 5km!

My 'Forty Challenge' will begin on April 20th, the first day of the summer term and finish on May 29th, the Friday of half term.

If you are able to sponsor me, I would be so grateful - every penny truly counts for the children and families at Springboard. Even better, if you fancy joining me for one of my walks I'd love to have some company!