The Challenge:

On 5 September I will once again take on the South Coast Ultra – with this years challenge being to complete the full 100k hike!

In 2025 I took on the 57k route that covered challenging terrain, with a total climb of 1250m along the coastline, over the Seven Sisters and across a large section of the South Downs.

This year instead of finishing when I reach Brighton – I will push on towards Devil’s Dyke, navigating terrain made all the more tricker by what by then will be night-time light levels, before arriving at the 100k finish line in Arundel.

This challenge will be made even tougher by my sight loss.

For those who may not know, a brain injury resulted in a severe visual cortex disorder. This, combined with other sight conditions I have developed, means my sight is extremely limited. I can see outlines of shadows and certain colours but nothing that would enable me to navigate my way safely without the aid of a cane or sighted guide.

Why I’m taking on this challenge:

Sight loss can be devastating. It strips many of their confidence and can result in isolation and a need to rely on others for assistance with the simplest of tasks. When I first discovered that my sight loss was permanent, I knew I would need to take every opportunity that came my way in order to lead a ‘normal’ life. I knew it wouldn’t be easy and didn’t even really know what there was available to help me overcome the barriers presented by my sight loss.

With the help of my sister Tania, I found Blind Veterans UK. Blind Veterans UK is a charity that offers rehabilitation, training, equipment and opportunities to blind veterans to ensure they can lead independent and fulfilling lives beyond sight loss.

I began receiving support from Blind Veterans UK in September 2024. What they helped me achieve in less than a year was phenomenal. I was provided with equipment such as liquid level indicators, an accessible phone, a device that can read my mail and other printed documents to me, cane training and opportunities to attend residential weeks at their Rustington Centre. They continue to help me take part in activities and learn skills I thought would be impossible with sight loss. I’ve gone from not being able to make a coffee for myself to cooking Christmas dinner and entering challenges like this!

This challenge is acting as part of the training for something even bigger I have planned for 2027. Opt in to receive updates when you make a donation to find out more later this year.

How you can help:

Thanks to Blind Veterans UK I have been given the opportunity to have my life again and I want to give back to the charity to ensure they can support other veterans like me.

As with last year’s challenge, I’m aiming to raise a minimum of £500 – the equivalent of the cost of one of the residential weeks I’ve spent at their Rustington Centre. In 2025 I was delighted and overwhelmed by the generosity of those who sponsored me and managed to raise over £7k! This amount of money can make a huge difference to the training and rehabilitation provided to a blind veteran and I’m excited to see what we can raise this year!

Here’s how you can help:

- Make a donation: Whatever amount you can give will make a difference. £6 could purchase ‘Bump-ons’ to help make ordinary household equipment accessible. £10 could purchase a liquid level indicator to help a veteran make a drink safely. £30 could cover the cost of a white cane. £250 could cover the cost of a home visit from a trained rehabilitation officer.

- Share my story by sharing this JustGiving page on your social media channels using the buttons below.

- If you’re able, why not take on your own challenge for Blind Veterans UK or organise a fundraising activity. Visit their website to find out more.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my page and thank you for your donation!