Machu Picchu charity trek for scoliosis

In March 2023, I take on my biggest challenge yet – a trek to Machu Picchu, Peru, to raise money for the Scoliosis Association UK. Read more to find out about my challenge, why I’m doing it and how I’m feeling.

---

My Machu Picchu challenge – Fundraising for scoliosis

Back in 2020, when I was 10 years post scoliosis surgery, I wanted to mark the occasion by raising awareness and money for the Scoliosis Association UK, an amazing charity that supports people with scoliosis and their families.

I decided that I wanted to run my first marathon and complete a trek to Machu Picchu, whilst raising money for the Scoliosis Association in the process. I know, crazy right. I don’t do things by halves do I? 

I know you are probably thinking… Why?

Well back in 2017, I took part in an amazing challenge by trekking the Great Wall of China, and raised over £1,000 for the Scoliosis Campaign Fund in the process. I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to push myself even further. My aim with these challenges has always been to push myself and inspire others with scoliosis, but also to raise awareness of the condition, as although very common, it is still relatively unknown. 

The pandemic had other plans, and unfortunately, my challenges were postponed… until NOW. Those of you that follow my journey will know that I completed my first marathon in April this year – The Manchester Marathon. Check out my Manchester Marathon video on YouTube to see how I did!  

I’m incredibly proud of this achievement, and I have raised over £1,000 for the Scoliosis Association so far. My next big challenge is now in March next year (2023) and involves trekking to Machu Picchu.

The challenge will involve…

• Trekking an average of 8 hours a day

• Trekking at high altitude

• The maximum altitude reached is 4600m above sea level

• Trekking through remote areas where facilities are basic

---

How do I feel?

Honestly, I’m excited but terrified! I don’t really know what to expect or if I can even do a challenge of this scale. It’s been moved so many times that I kind of thought it wouldn’t happen and put it to the back of my mind, but now it’s coming round fast and I’m thinking can I do this?! I’m worried about training and how to train through the winter, the altitude and loads of other stuff.

I would be so grateful if you could support me by sponsoring me in my crazy challenge. Alternately, if you could share this post/my YouTube video below, I would be eternally grateful as I have a rather ambitious target. Also, I’m donating all the profits from my scoliosis awareness store as well, so if you buy anything between now and my challenge date, then the profits will go towards sponsoring me and supporting the Scoliosis Association UK.

I will be making further blog posts and videos on this challenge, including the training, what I’m taking with me, and also vlogging throughout the challenge. If you are interested in following my journey please subscribe to my YouTube channel. 

Wish me luck!

---