Machu Picchu trek for The DPJ Foundation

Hi, we’re Emma and Iwan and we are trekking the Inca Trail in Peru to help raise awareness and raise donations for The DPJ Foundation. A fantastic charity that we have both been involved in since its creation, 9 years ago.

Emma; I’ve been involved with The DPJ Foundation for the past 9 years, attending training, raising awareness, volunteering on the Share The Load 24/7 helpline and generally helping with events & fundraising. More recently I’m beyond proud to put my nursing skills to use on the Hywel Davies lorry - a cattle lorry which has been converted into an amazing mobile medical hub, which allows us to attend livestock markets & local farming events, helping us bridge the gap between physical & mental health - right at the heart of where farmers go!

I had no farming knowledge before I got involved with the charity & it’s been a steep learning curve, but I can see firsthand the amazing work that DPJ offers, the impact it has on the farming community & the real difference it makes every single day.

The charity really means so much to so many - raising awareness & funds will help us continue this important work & continue to provide support for those who need it.

I can’t think of a better way to honour the 10th anniversary of the charity by focusing on my own physical & mental health with this exciting, but daunting challenge - this will not be easy for me!

Although a real bonus for me will be the fact that my son, Iwan will also be making the trek with me - sharing this journey with him will really be a once in a lifetime experience!

Iwan; The DPJ Foundation was founded by one of my primary school teachers, who sadly lost her husband to suicide. I did my first fundraising for DPJ at the age of 10 -

In the last 9 years the charity has encouraged all local schools, families & friends of all ages to discuss their mental health, learn to recognise the signs of someone struggling & most importantly the value of talking & asking for help when needed.

Thank you in advance for any contributions - it really means so much!

The DPJ Foundation is a charity that works with farmers & the rural community to help beat the stigma around mental health. We offer support to people who want help through the confidential 24/7 call line & rapid access to counselling. We also deliver mental health awareness & bereavement support.