Whilst training to run the width of Wales (77km / 48 miles, Friday 7th August), I received heartbreaking news from Nepal.

My Nepalese guide, Ganga, who guided me around the Manaslu Circuit and helped me reach 5,160m, making it possible for me to experience these once-in-a-lifetime adventures in Nepal, has suffered a brain haemorrhage. The current prognosis is that he will likely have paralysis in his left hand and left leg.

Ganga supported his family through two jobs, guiding trekkers in the mountains and driving tourists around Pokhara as a taxi driver. After completing our 16-day trek, I would see Ganga immediately return to work. With the limited opportunities available to people like him, they can only guide in the mountains for a few months of the year, compared to us in the UK who have an abundance of opportunity. Following this life-changing event, it’s unlikely he’ll be able to return to either.

My trip to Nepal, and the incredible kindness and hospitality shown to me by Ganga and the Rai family, genuinely changed my life. It inspired me to return home and pursue a dream job helping people experience these incredible trekking adventures. For the first time, I can honestly say I love coming to work every day, something I never thought I’d find. I am running the width of Wales for the love of endurance, challenging myself and being able to experience it with two family members, but if I can use it as an opportunity to help someone and give back, then I would love that.

If you are able to support Ganga and his family in any way, it would mean the world to them and to me. No contribution is too small, and every bit of support can make a huge difference during this incredibly difficult time. After completing the run, I will be transferring my donation and any extra funds raised to Ganga’s bank account to support any medical costs and living expenses for him and his family.