Embracing the Journey: From Graduation to Giving Back

As a recent graduate, the world is brimming with opportunities and pathways yet to be explored. It's a time of transition, self-discovery, and, most importantly, embracing the possibilities that lie ahead. For many, including myself, this phase is all about figuring out what comes next. While some days are filled with a whirlwind of activities, others are reserved for the cherished "Sunday reset" and moments of solitude.

Despite my love for the outdoors, travel, photography, and sketching, those who know me will often say I'm always bustling with activity. But 2024 was a pivotal year, marked by growth, self-recognition, and a commitment to personal development. It was the year I consistently showed up for myself, whether it was hitting the gym, enjoying the great outdoors, or indulging in a bit of self-care.

Planning for a Challenging ‘25

2025 is set to be a year of challenge and purpose. Over the past few weeks, I've been meticulously planning "Challenge 25" with the primary aim of raising awareness and funds for the Ickle Pickles Charity. This charity holds a special place in my heart, as it supports neonatal units across the UK by providing critical care equipment for sick and premature babies. Two very special individuals in my life owe their early survival and development to the equipment provided by neonatal units.

The Challenge Ahead

The events I'm participating in are as follows:

• February 9th: 5K Goodwood
• March 8th: Battersea Half Marathon
• May 10th: 15k Inflatable Run, Guildford
• May 18th: Hyrox, Berlin
• July 13th: 10k London Saucony Run
• August: Skydive (TBC)
• September 2025: Mount Everest Base Camp Trek
• October: Bubble Rush (TBC)

These events will form the backbone of "Challenge 25" with the aim of achieving a fundraising target of £1,000. This will not only provide essential support to the Ickle Pickles charity but also raise awareness of the incredible work they do for neonatal units and hospitals across the UK.

A Personal Cause with a Profound Impact

The reason behind my dedication to this cause is deeply personal. I'm inspired by the journeys of those two individuals I previously mentioned, who needed neonatal care to thrive. Their experiences, ranging from autism and cerebral palsy to global developmental delay, highlight the importance of the services and equipment provided by such charities.

Elsie’s Story 

I'll start with Elsie; Elsie calls me Auntie Issie. Even though me and her mum are not biological sisters, we have been best friends since the age of 2, so we see each other as sisters. 

Maisie’s (Elsie Mum’s) experience

" My daughter Elsie was born suddenly at 23+3 weeks, weighing only 1.1lb, which is equivalent to a bag of sugar. Elsie spent 4 months in neonatal intensive care (NICU), fighting many infections, collapsed lungs and NEC (necrotising enterocolitis). Without the incredible nurses/doctors and amazing and advanced technology and machines, Elsie wouldn't have been able to survive. This was undoubtedly the hardest and scariest time of our lives, and we are so grateful to Queen Alexandra Hospital for saving our beautiful daughter. We are also beyond grateful to Ickle Pickles and everyone who helps them raise funds to be able to provide the lifesaving equipment." 

My experience

The day I found out Maisie was having a baby was incredible. Elsie arriving early was a day that changed my best friend’s life in many ways. I couldn't be prouder of the way she managed and got through the unexpectedness of the unknown, but she smashed it. And Elsiemoo absolutely smashed it. 

It has been a privilege to be able to watch her get stronger and grow every day to now a beautiful 4 year old who is striving in all she does, entertains and makes everyone laugh which her sassiness and confidence. The advanced equipment and support throughout the Neonatal Intensive Care Units along with incredible medical staff, many prayers and a huge amount of love she conquered her first stages of life like a champion. I am beyond proud of her.

By splitting my fundraising efforts between the neonatal units in Southampton, Portsmouth, and Chichester, I hope to contribute to making essential equipment accessible to all hospitals. This includes supporting children born at full term who require medical care, alongside those born prematurely.

Join Me on This Journey

Thank you for taking the time to understand my "why" and for supporting this cause. I invite you to follow my journey on Instagram at @ischallenge2025, where I'll be sharing my experiences in fitness, health, and well-being. This journey is not just about physical challenges but also about making a difference and inspiring others.

Together, we can support Ickle Pickles and the 90,000 babies born prematurely or sick in the UK each year, giving every newborn a fighting chance. Let's make 2025 a year of growth, giving, and achieving new heights.

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