Towards the end of the year I will be taking on an extremely demanding eleven day trek through the stunning Indian Himalayas, covering up to 20 km each day and reaching altitudes of up to 3,000 meters. I am doing this to raise money for Crisis and Simon community, two charities dedicated to ending homelessness and transforming lives. Please note that every penny raised will go to the charity, the trek itself is being funded for by Lloyds Banking Group.

The fundraising will support the 9 Skylight centers that homeless people can go to for food and accommodation and Crisis’ Changing Lives Grants Programme to help people experiencing homelessness to progress into education, employment and to start up small businesses.

My personal reason for taking on this challenge is simple; it is an opportunity to help others.

The added motivation, four years ago without any prior symptoms or warning, I suffered a cardiac arrest and was unconscious for seven minutes. I was fortunate to survive and required heart surgery - a quadruple bypass - to address the 'damage' caused by an undiagnosed genetic condition. Now I want to not only give something back but also to prove to myself, both physically and emotionally, that I can achieve this.

Homelessness is an issue that I care deeply about. We see it around us every day. How often do you see someone, don't have any cash and find it difficult to help. Recently, I was approached by a homeless person, although I did not have any cash with me, I asked if I could buy him something to eat. He chose McDonalds, where I paid for a meal, he was so grateful. Such a small gesture meant everything.

Everyone deserves a safe place to call 'home', a basic comfort many of us take for granted, and this is a chance to help. Your support can make a real difference to Crisis and the Simon Community in their mission to achieve this,].

Any donation will help. Please consider supporting me and sharing my page with family and friends as I work towards my own personal target of £6000.

Thank you so much for your support <3