So far, in my preparation for the 3 Peaks Challenge – and ultimately Kilimanjaro – I have learned several important things that tell me what a fantastic experience this is going to be, and one that will last way past touching down at Heathrow next February.

Firstly, I think the amazing mix of colleagues in Team Twende will mean that we will never be short of something to talk about or laugh about – our fortnightly team calls are always filled with fun and laughter. I can see us making a great team when we finally hit the mountains and I look forward to forging new friendships, as well as renewing older ones – finding out more about ourselves and each other as we go.

Secondly, I have gone through my life (yes – that’s quite a long time, before anyone says anything), just doing what I please as far as exercise, nutrition and hydration are concerned. I’ve always been pretty fit and active, so it has never really occurred to me that I might need to be more thoughtful. It has taken the preparation for this challenge to really make me think about what I might be doing to myself, so I have made a few changes that mean not only am I better prepared for the physical challenge of 3Peaks/Kili, but better prepared for life in general for a person of a certain age…

Finally, I will admit I was not prepared for how excited I would get as we get closer to the day we pack up our rucksacks, grab our hiking poles and reach for the skies. I really can’t wait to get started on this journey – it is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity and I feel privileged to be part of it. The fact we are doing it with the blessing of our colleagues, and for such a great cause, makes it all the more energising.

Let’s do this thing!