Back in March 2025, when my son, Joshua, was training to become a Royal Marine, I hesitated, leaving it too late to take part in the abseil. When I told Joshua, he immediately said "Oh, you should have done it!"

During Joshua's training, I worried ceaselessly about what lay ahead for him, and thought of every worst possibility. It was only after speaking to one of the team, that I was assured Joshua was in the safest of hands.

He passed out in July 2025. Pride doesn't come close to how I felt, and for that matter, Joshua himself was quite rightly very pleased with himself. He was bursting with excitement for what his future held.

Many of you already know what happened on 1 November 2025. To say every minute of every day is agonising torture would be an understatement. But the Royal Marines Charity has been a lifeline. Their help, kindness, and support have been invaluable.

When I saw the abseil was taking place again this March, I determined to do it, despite being quite scared of heights.

I am doing it for Joshua, for the RM Family, and for me.

I hope to raise money so the RM Charity can continue with their incredible work:

RMA - The Royal Marines Charity is reliant on the generous support of our fundraisers to raise vital funds which enables us to continue to deliver the support to our beneficiaries where it is needed most. We offer lifelong support to the RM family: from our serving personnel to our veteran community and their wider families. This support is bespoke to the individual and covers all areas of support needs.

Thank you for choosing to support the RM family and helping us to make a difference.