My Story

In the UK, 1 in every 100 babies is born with congenital heart disease (CHD). Every child’s journey is different — some face enormous obstacles, while others find hope through life-changing treatment and care.

This cause isn’t abstract to me. It’s personal.
I was born with Transposition of the Great Arteries, a congenital heart defect that currently has no cure. A heart transplant is somewhere in my future. The Children’s Heart Unit at Freeman Hospital became a second home to me growing up, and the doctors, nurses, and staff there gave me my fighting chance. I’ve watched first-hand the extraordinary impact this ward has on families during their happiest and hardest moments — and I am endlessly grateful.

This year, I want to give back to the place that gave me everything.

Why now

I won’t pretend 2025 has been easy. It’s been one of the hardest years of my life. I’ve battled health scares and uncertainty, gained weight, and lost faith in my ability to do difficult things. On top of everything else, I received a cancer diagnosis. For a while, I genuinely questioned whether I was worthy of chasing the goals I once held close.

Then something shifted. I decided I wasn’t going to stay in that dark place. I made a list of things I wanted to do, and one rose to the top: to push myself physically, mentally, and emotionally for a cause that truly matters.
The challenge

Rather than taking on a single hike, I’m committing to a series of challenges that will pull me completely out of my comfort zone — including running a 5K race, something that once felt impossible to me. Every step, every mile, every moment of doubt I push through will be for the children and families relying on the Children’s Heart Unit Fund. If I can fight my way back to health, I can fight for them too.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps CHUF continue its incredible work supporting children with CHD and their families. Thank you for being part of this with me. ♥️