For Vanessa ♥️

This September, I'll be joining organ donor families, transplant recipients, patients waiting for life saving transplants and the incredible NHS nurses and healthcare professionals who make transplantation possible as we take part in the annual 'Turn Yr Wyddfa Pink.' Together, we'll climb Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, as the mountain turns pink in recognition of those who have saved lives through the gift of organ donation. A cause that is deeply personal to my family and I.

In her 30's my mum, Vanessa, received a life saving liver transplant due to a genetic condition. Thanks to one donor and their family, she was given the chance to live. She was able to build a remarkable career of 40 years in the NHS, devoting her life to helping others, have two children and live a life full of love and laughter. The number of lives she has touched is truly immeasurable. A liver transplant didn't just save my mum's life, it gave our family a future.

After more than 30 years, her health suddenly deteriorated and she urgently needed a second liver transplant. We found ourselves facing a frightening and uncertain future, knowing that without another donor, she would not survive. Fortunately and once again, the selfless decision of an organ donor and their loved ones gave her another chance at life, to enjoy a retirement she so greatly deserves. In August 2026, she received her second liver transplant and is now on the road to recovery. The experience has been a reminder that organ donation doesn't just save one life. It gives families more time together, more memories and more opportunity to never take anything for granted.

Her determination, compassion and strength have carried her through every challenge life has placed in her path. She is truly our hero.

No words can truly express the gratitude we feel for the donors, their families and the NHS teams, especially those at King's College London, who made this possible. Without organ donation, my mum would not be here today. That's why I'm raising money for the NHS Blood and Transplant Charity. Every donation will help support the vital work they do, whether that's funding support services for donor families and transplant patients, investing in equipment and education or helping drive research that improves transplant outcomes and saves more lives. If you're able to donate, no matter how big or small the amount, you'll be helping to support a cause that has changed my family's life not once, but twice.

Thank you for reading, for supporting my fundraiser and for helping to create a future where more families get the precious gift of extra time together.