Endurance for Change

This year, I decided to challenge myself by getting back into endurance sport – a powerful way to push my limits, try new things, connect with others, and explore the world. Like many, I spent a long time just going through the motions with no real goals, stuck in my comfort zone. But early last year, I realised that wasn’t bringing me joy. I started talking about my big dreams, but they were still just ideas. Then, after climbing a 250m classic Scottish route last summer, I thought: why not say YES to everything I’ve been dreaming about?

So, here we are. Ten weeks into training for a Half Ironman, a 300km trek along the GR11 in the Pyrenees, and a 5-day ultramarathon in Jordan. But this isn’t just about me. I want to use these challenges as an opportunity to give back and raise money for three incredible charities:

CALICO is a local charity in the Grampian and Highlands and Islands regions, supporting families impacted by childhood cancer. My family has been involved with CALICO for decades after being directly affected.  CALICO provides vital financial support for oncology families and funds requested equipment for the Paediatric Oncology Department at Aberdeen Royal Children's Hospital. 100% of all donations go directly to helping these families.

AFPST (Armed Forces Para-Snow Sports Team) is a charity that supports injured military personnel, both serving and retired, through adaptive snow sports. Whether the injury is physical or psychological, AFPST helps individuals rediscover purpose and confidence by providing opportunities to connect with others, step outside their comfort zones, and experience new challenges in a safe environment. I’ve been privileged to support this charity with physiotherapy and medical care, and I’ve seen firsthand how transformative their work is.

Bigmoose is a charity I find truly inspiring, aiming to break down barriers to mental health support, prevent suicide, and reduce homelessness. They offer accessible, fast, and solution-focused therapy, giving people the help they desperately need – especially those who fall through the cracks of the system. Bigmoose provides life-changing support for people who don’t have access to the care they deserve.

I want to use my challenges to raise as much as possible for these incredible charities. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. If you can’t donate, please share this page to help spread the word. And for anyone who’s up for joining the madness of these challenges, the more the merrier – let’s make a real impact together!