When I was asked by a good friend, would I be up to the challenge of climbing Africa's highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro with him??? I just couldn't say no! I had been looking for some time for a personal physical challenge, and I knew this would be the one.

I will be leaving the UK on the 21st October, meeting my friend Hakim in Tanzania.

On the 23rd October 2025, we will start our ascent to hopefully reach the summit at 5,895 metres (19,340 feet) on the 29th October.

I would like to take this opportunity to dedicate this personal challenge to an amazing young man who has been such a big part of our lives... our dearest friend TAYLOR!

TAYLOR was born in July 2000 and due to complication around the time of his birth, he was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. The condition sadly affects all areas of his life, including walking, his balance, fine motor movements, his speech and mental ability. His mum Toni was told that, if he survived, he would have a very poor quality of life and would be totally dependent.

Toni started fundraising for Taylor from when he was just 3 years old. She wanted to give him every opportunity for a better life, but knew that she could not do this alone. With much support, hard work and determination, at the age of 7 he started to walk... much to the amazement of the doctors and physios!

Myself, Mandy, Jack and Kelly are truly blessed to be friends with this beautiful family!

We have been part of the fundraising over many years which has been continuous and has paid for various therapies including private physiotherapy, speech therapy and Bowen therapy. It has also allowed Toni to buy pieces of equipment to help support and encourage Taylor's independence.

Taylor is a brave, strong, funny and witty young man who has already achieved so many of his own personal challenges... So I ask you, to be so kind as to donate to this page to support Taylor.

ALL OF THE MONEY THAT YOU DONATE WILL GO DIRECTLY TO TAYLOR'S FUND!

It will be used to continue to provide the support that he needs and deserves!

Thanking you all!