At my last competition, I fell off my horse into a tree and broke my neck in five places. I feel very fortunate that, despite the high impact, I have had no damage to my spinal cord, which means that I have full range of movement in the rest of my body- there has been lots of celebratory toe wiggling!

Navigating this journey has opened my eyes to the challenges faced by individuals who endure similar accidents. It’s a stark reminder of how profoundly life can change in an instant.

I am truly grateful for the exceptional care I received from the NHS and the remarkable charities in our country that support those affected by life-altering injuries. In recognition of the overwhelming love and support I've felt from my community, I want to give back to these organizations to ensure that a robust support system is available for others when they face unexpected challenges.

Through this JustGiving page, I am raising funds for the following incredible charities that aid individuals in their recovery from life-changing injuries:

- Southern Spinal Injury Trust

- Injured Jockey Fund

- British Eventing Support Trust

- Cycle for Saffron

If you’re unable to contribute financially, there’s still a way for you to get involved! Join me in celebrating the gift of movement.

The healthcare professionals caring for me have emphasized the crucial role that my neck and back muscles played in protecting my spinal cord during the impact. This has reinforced my belief that weight training and physical fitness can truly save lives. To celebrate this, I encourage everyone to explore new and enjoyable ways to move and strengthen your bodies. From my observations in the hospital, I’ve learned that proactive rehabilitation, or "prehab," is key. Let’s support our amazing NHS staff by committing to our own physical wellness now.

Sending you all big smiles and motivation!

Love Tarka:)