Freddie and I are incredibly lucky to be taking on the challenge of a lifetime: trekking to Everest Base Camp to raise vital funds for PTSD UK. It’s a tough journey. As most of you know PTSD and developmental trauma are two things that Freddie has to cope with daily. So having this opportunity to help him and others struggling with the affects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD is an absolute privilege.

PTSD can affect anyone as it's caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. This could include abuse, violence, the loss of a loved one, road traffic accidents, childbirth trauma, sudden illnesses, natural disasters, or military combat. These events can leave a lasting impact, making daily life overwhelming.

Freddie's challenges started at birth, he was premature at 27 weeks, then when he was not even 6 months old he suffered X2 respiratory arrests and one cardiac arrest. He survived this proving his fighting spirit had begun. He then went on to suffer severe physical and emotional abuse and neglect for the following 2.5 years. Cas and I adopted him at age 3 and we have been there along side his struggles and the affects of trauma every single day since. We will continue to be by his side every single day until we no longer can be. Hiking is something we have discovered helps him and he has taken on many, hiking challenges that some adults can struggle to achieve so I have no doubt that this challenge will be no different. I am proud to do this with him and be by his side through the whole experience.

PTSD UK is the only UK charity solely dedicated to supporting those living with PTSD and C-PTSD. They provide vital resources, raise awareness, and campaign for better treatments to ensure no one has to face these challenges alone.

As PTSD UK is a charity our trip is a fund raising exercise, the money raised will be used to help towards the cost of our place on the trip but also for the charity itself.

Over 12 days, we will trek to altitudes of 5,500m, navigating tough terrain and pushing our limits. Every step we take is to help bring hope and support to those affected by PTSD or C-PTSD.