Climbing a Mountain 3,500 Miles Away... Because I Couldn't Bear to Miss It

This September, while an incredible group of supporters of The Mark Williams Foundation climb Ben Nevis together in Scotland, I'll be standing at the foot of a mountain nearly 3,500 miles away, wishing I was with them.

Since I'll be in Dubai, joining the Ben Nevis challenge simply isn't possible this year. But anyone who knows me knows there was absolutely no chance I was sitting this one out.

So while the team take on the UK's highest mountain, I'll be taking on the highest mountain in the UAE, Jebel Jais.

Now, before anyone says it, yes, I know Ben Nevis is the bigger challenge! But I can assure you that climbing a mountain in the Middle East at the end of September comes with its own unique difficulties. I'll be setting off before sunrise to avoid the worst of the heat, carrying litres of water, battling steep climbs, rocky terrain and temperatures that most Scots would consider completely unacceptable for any form of exercise!

More importantly, every step will be for a cause that means the world to me.

The Mark Williams Foundation was established in memory of my husband, Mark, who sadly lost his life in 2023. Overnight, our family found ourselves navigating a future we never expected. Through that experience, I learned just how important support, opportunity and human connection can be during life's toughest moments.

Today, the Foundation works to support fathers who are struggling and feeling alone, while also helping young people who dream of becoming entrepreneurs but lack the support, opportunities or confidence to get started.

Every pound raised helps us continue that mission.

It helps us train volunteers.

It helps us support fathers who don't know where else to turn.

It helps us provide mentoring, guidance and opportunities for young people who deserve a chance.

Most importantly, it helps us ensure that nobody has to face their challenges alone.

I'll be climbing without the team. Without the banter. Without the group photos. Without the celebratory pint at the end. But I'll be carrying the same purpose up that mountain.

If you can spare a few pounds, I'd be incredibly grateful.

And if you've ever supported me, supported the Foundation, or simply believe that every father deserves support and every young person deserves opportunity, then please consider making a donation.

From Ben Nevis to Jebel Jais, we're climbing for the same reason.

For Mark.

For families.

For hope.

And for a future where nobody has to struggle alone.

Thank you for your support.

"Different mountain. Same mission." 🏔️🧡