Worthing entrepreneur signs up for fourth overseas trek in aid of local hospices

Danielle also received a cash settlement that she wanted to put towards something special, and when she saw the hospice’s Dalai Lama India Trek advertised, it seemed perfect. This was the beginning of a four-year partnership between the business and St Barnabas, which raised more than £17,000.

Danielle says: “I’ve had the best time on all three treks and met the most amazing people. When you are thrown together with a group of people who are all there for the same cause, you already have something in common.

“The treks have such a diverse range of people, so you have an amazing opportunity to connect with people you might not normally meet. I’ve met two lifelong friends on the treks – Carrie, whose wedding I recently attended, and Ali, who I’ve been on holiday with.

“India was my first trek, and it was so special because I’d never done anything like it before. I’d always wanted to go to that part of the world and there were so many memorable experiences – I would, however, like to forget about getting Delhi Belly: not the best part of the trip!”

Since that first trip, Danielle has experienced the Inca Trail and high altitudes in Peru, plus stunning scenery and cheese fondue in Switzerland. Her next challenge, in 2024, is the Sahara: “This will be a different type of challenge for me as we will be trekking on the sand. I am planning some day trips to Camber Sands to get used to the terrain and build my fitness, ready to take on the challenge.

“There are a couple of people I know from previous treks who have signed up and I’d encourage anyone thinking of signing up to go for it. Bonds form very quickly and the camaraderie and support on these treks are amazing. We all help each other get through it, face our fears, and be pushed to limits we didn’t even know we had.”