I’m taking on a 10-day Himalayan trek to turn an extreme challenge into real support for Autism Jersey.
Later this year, I’ll be heading to India to take on a challenging 10-day Himalayan trek, raising funds for the incredible charity Autism Jersey, which does so much to support autistic people and their families in our community.
The trek starts and finishes in McLeod Ganj, home of the Dalai Lama, high on the ridges of the Indian Himalayas. Over the course of the journey, we’ll be climbing to altitudes of 3,200 metres (10,500 feet) and camping overnight at heights of up to 2,850 metres (9,350 feet).
For me, the biggest challenge will be the reduced oxygen levels. At around 10,000 feet, oxygen levels are roughly 30% lower than at sea level, which can sap energy and seriously test endurance. Although we’ll be in India, there’s a real possibility of snow underfoot the higher we go, and night-time temperatures can drop to around -6°C, making this a tough physical and mental challenge.
I wanted to take on this trek in honour of my inspirational friend Sophie-Maude, a well-known singer who with great support has achieved remarkable success despite significant challenges. Diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, severe OCD and Tourette’s, Sophie-Maude faced major difficulties growing up. Music transformed her life, leading to chart success, including a number one hit on the New Zealand Hot 40. A documentary about her story can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IryVRMXS9eI
Through Sophie-Maude, I’ve learned an enormous amount about mental health and neurodiversity — subjects I previously knew very little about. I feel genuinely privileged to have gained this understanding and want to give something meaningful back.
Now for the important part.
I want to maximise every penny raised for Autism Jersey, so I will personally match every donation made. On top of that, the charity can claim a further 25% through Jersey Gift Aid if your donation is over £50.
This means that every £100 donated will become £250 for Autism Jersey, and all money stays local.
Please give as generously as you can to support this amazing cause. Together, we really can make a difference.
As a token of my gratitude, if you choose to sponsor me, I will personally light a traditional butter lamp on your behalf in the sacred 'Butter Lamp House' at the Dalai Lama’s temple. If you have a personal message, a name, or an intention you would like me to carry, please send me a private message. I will take these messages with me to the heart of the Himalayas, offering them up where the prayer flags fly.
