My daughter was in a controlling relationship for a couple of years, experiencing emotional, physical and sexual abuse. She didn't tell anyone about this but luckily a close friend of hers realised what was happening and persuaded her to get the perpetrator out of her house and report him to the police.

The police were amazing. They believed her and the man was arrested. That was two years ago.

Then there was the long wait for the trial. It was cancelled twice and she felt overwhelmed with everything. The abuse, the trauma and the fear of going to court. She experienced suicidal thoughts which was terrible for her and for us.

She contacted Rape Crisis where a member of the team spent time talking to her, validating her grief and generally making her feel supported. They listened to her. They believed her. They recognised how hard it was for her to tell her story. They helped her to work through her feelings and explained that she was not to blame. There was never any pressure from them to do anything. Just a virtual arm around her giving comfort. NO OTHER AGENCY HELPED HER. NO ONE AT ALL.

Rape Crisis don't just offer help to victims but are actively involved, along with other agencies, in trying to change things for the better in the judicial system.

The family want desperately to give something back to this wonderful organisation so silly me thought walking 100 miles in London would be fun! I know it won't be fun but I am livid about a system that demeans the complainants of rape and sexual abuse. The humiliation my daughter experienced in court was almost as bad as the original abuse. This anger will hopefully keep me going as I trudge back and forth from The Old Bailey to the Houses of Parliament.

I appreciate It's a terrible time to be asking for sponsorship but this organisation is desperately needed by so many people.The smallest donation will be used wisely by an organisation that provides a free and confidential support service to those who have experienced sexual violence.

I am starting the walk on SUNDAY OCTOBER 1ST and will finish when the miles are done! If anyone fancies listening to me bleating on about my hips, knees, Elvis and life in general please do come along. Join me for a hour, a day or even the whole walk! The more people that walk the more powerful the message.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU

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I am fundraising for Rape Crisis England & Wales to stand in solidarity with victims and survivors of sexual violence. Rape and sexual abuse are devastating crimes but are unfortunately not uncommon. 1 in 5 women have been raped or sexually assaulted as an adult.

Rape Crisis England & Wales:

- Raises awareness of the prevalence and impact of sexual violence and abuse in all its forms.

- Advocates for systems change to create better responses in justice, health, education and across society

- Ensure that specialist support is available