When I was presented with the possibility of climbing Kilimanjaro it seemed like a crazy idea. It is certainly very far from anything I have ever done. It seems like a great way to celebrate fitness and take a risk now my children are independent young adults. I know it will be a huge challenge and I am training hard and doing all I can to prepare.

I thought long and hard about choosing the Head and Neck Cancer Charity Oasis which needs publicity and funds.. I have worked with people who have had this cancer for over 30 years and there have been many advances in the treatment. However still many people have significant and permanent changes to their appearance, their speech and their swallowing and suffer the devastating consequences of this. This charity has recently been set up by our department to improve the service to our Manchester patients. Their funds will go directly to support patients after their treatment and to help push forward the ways our services can be improved such as the use of 3D printing and robotic surgery. Everything which can spare structures can improve function and therefore quality of life.