Hello!

As most of you are aware, Mike and I are passionate cat lovers and know how much joy rescue cats can offer. Our lives were really enriched when we adopted Merlin and Sophronia, and are now by Ember and Sable, but we know that there are many other cats who also need support from wonderful charities like Cats Protection.

When I heard about the Cats Protection Big Roam event, where people raise money through sponsored walks during August 2025, I really wanted to join in. Initially, I struggled to think of a way to make it manageable, given my limited mobility, as I didn't want to use my wheelchair to do the walk. However, with some careful thought, I have set myself the goal of walking around the green outside our home, five days a week (to allow for days when I can't easily walk across the room, let alone around the green!), every week in August.

I know that from the photo it doesn’t look far, and indeed it isn’t, but it will be a real challenge for me, as it is much further than I have been able to walk for a number of years. So far on test walks, it has taken me 10-20 mins to get all the way around it. Fortunately, I will be able to stop and take breaks as frequently and for as long as needed, as there is a seat on my wheeled walker. Mike will come with me or be 'on call', in case I get into any difficulties on my walks.

The thought of being able to raise money for cats through really challenging myself feels very exciting and I will keep my ‘just giving’ page updated with my progress during the month of August.

Here is some general information about Cats Protection, the charity I am fund raising for:

Cats Protection help more cats than any other organisation. They are a dedicated community of passionate employees, volunteers, supporters and partners, working together to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them.

• They are the voice of cats in society and speak up for their protection.

• They are working towards a society where every cat is treated with kindness and respect.

• Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Find out more: www.cats.org.uk

Your donations will go towards a wide range treatments for cats:

• £3 feeds one cat in their care for 2 weeks,

• £5 can buy two packs of catnip mouse toys, providing enrichment to stimulate their minds and encourage play, or 10 days’ worth of specialist milk to hand-feed an orphaned kitten,

• £10 could cover the cost of microchipping for five cats,

• £15 could cover the cost of a worming and flea treatment for two cats to treat and prevent parasites,

• £20 could cover two rolls of soft, washable vet bedding to keep a whole bank of cat pens warm and cosy,

• £50 could feed 10 cats in Cats Protection care for 25 days, or provide one cat with their first veterinary exam, vaccinations and flea and worming treatments.

I have set an initial target of raising £150, please don’t worry if that goal isn’t reached, all funds raised will still go to Cats Protection. Please note that any donations, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated – there is the option to gift aid if you are able. However, I fully realise that not everyone has spare money they can donate, so I want to assure you that your best wishes, encouragement and/or prayers for me to succeed in my challenge, will be equally valued and cherished.

Many thanks,

Vicki Wells