Fundraiser taking on Cairngorms challenge to raise funds for Open Door

The duo will begin their trek on Friday 23 June and will take on the added challenge of wild camping each night before finishing their 10 day long hike on Sunday 2 July.

The Cairngorms National Park is in the Eastern Highlands of Scotland. So, the pair will be trekking through rugged terrain and will have to navigate the mountainous landscape.

Sam is taking on the epic challenge to raise vital funds for our Open Door service after they supported his mum.

Sam told us: “Following a challenging few years, my Mum's support group was reduced down to just her children, she was living in an imaginary world as reality was too difficult to cope with. She lost her job, friends, family members and sense of identity.

“My mum was referred to Open Door and was provided with regular counselling to help her overcome her challenges. With continued support from family, counselling from Open Door, and a renewed personal strength my Mum feels resilient and a huge sense of relief and safety in knowing that she isn’t alone.

“I want to do something to raise vital funds as a thank you to them all.”

Sam and his best friend are now hoping to raise as much money as possible so Open Door can help more people receive fast mental health and wellbeing support. Walking roughly 7-8 miles per day for 10 days is going to be a huge test but Sam is excited to get started.

“I’m feeling a mix of exhilaration and nervousness but the unknown challenges and promise of adventure fuels my determination. I have previous experience with multi day hikes but this will be my first time wild camping while undertaking a multi-day hike.”

We would like to wish them the best of luck on their trek. If you would like to sponsor their challenge click here.

If you would like to take on a challenge for Making Space then email fundraising@makingspace.co.uk to let us know your plans or discuss ideas.