Michelle & Wendy’s Adventure

We are always so honoured when people tell us they are competing in an event or taking part in a challenge to fundraise for Dogstar. So when Michelle got in touch to tell us she was taking on not just one but FIVE physical challenges (with some other high-adrenaline activities in-between), we couldn’t wait to hear more.

Throughout May, Michelle and her partner Wendy conquered:

• Scafell Pike – the highest mountain in England.
• Snowdon – the highest mountain in Wales.
• The UK’s highest skydive at a whopping 15,000 feet.
• Velocity – Europe’s fastest zip line with a max speed of 125 mph.
• A daring bungee jump followed by a thrilling bungee swing.

A few weeks ago, we caught up with Michelle to find out how everything went and what fuelled her to go on this life-changing, action-packed adventure.

Michelle, you have done some amazing things on this trip that many people would find absolutely terrifying. What motivated or inspired you to take on these particular challenges, and all so close together?

My colleague’s stunning photograph from the summit of the quarry, poised at the start of the Velocity zip line, was nothing short of inspiring. The image, alive with beauty and his stories of thrilling trepidation mixed with delight, sparked a desire within me to take the leap myself. This adventure awaited in North Wales, a considerable distance from our home in the Scottish Highlands. Although the drive seemed excessive for a single zip line experience, it presented an opportunity to tick off longstanding goals from my bucket list—ascending Scafell Pike and Snowdon.

My 40th birthday ascent of Ben Nevis was a formidable task at 22 stone. But having lost 9.5 stone, I felt a renewed sense of possibility and decided to incorporate at least one of these peaks into our trip. Scafell Pike was the chosen to break up our drive.

En route from Scafell Pike to North Wales, the chance to try the UK’s highest skydive surfaced, aligning with another of my bucket list dreams. And so, the meticulous planning began. Initially, Snowdon was a possibility if I succeeded in scaling Scafell Pike. However, our commitment to raising funds for Dogstar solidified our resolve to triumph over both peaks.

Having a partner throughout this journey must have been such a comfort and it’s amazing you and Wendy were able to help and cheer each other on. How did you make the decision to go on this adventure together?

Setting out on this adventure with my life partner brought an incredible sense of support and unity. We spurred each other on, shared laughter and navigated moments of fear. The adrenaline was palpable, and as fatigue set in, our mutual encouragement was needed more than ever.

While I’d like to claim that our journey was born from mutual dreams, the truth is a bit more one-sided. Wendy’s enthusiasm sparked when I proposed swapping a typical holiday for the thrilling zip line in Wales. Despite her dual roles in IT and fitness instruction, Wendy isn’t one for the great outdoors. But she was game for every challenge except the mountains, which I resolved to tackle solo. Yet, when the cause of supporting Dogstar arose, Wendy’s determination shone through; she wouldn’t stand aside. Our shared triumphs brought us closer, and let’s be honest, Wendy wasn’t about to let me claim all the glory!

Which activity (or part of your journey) did you find the most challenging and why? And when things got tough, what motivated you to keep going?

This is a more difficult question than you think.

Physically, it was ascending Scafell Pike. We were fully equipped and trained, ensuring maximum safety for our climb. The excitement was palpable, but the mood turned reflective upon learning of a climber lost overnight. Despite this, we seized the ideal conditions to encourage each other and fellow climbers, focusing on the journey rather than the destination. This climb remains our most formidable, yet the camaraderie at the pub later was overshadowed by the tragic news that the missing climber had perished.

The skydive presented a mental battle, with adrenaline coursing and doubts whispering whether we should leap from a perfectly functional aircraft. Moments of mutual uncertainty arose, questioning our rationale.

Bungee jumping in reverse was a blend of sheer will and folly. The experience was petrifying, and even recalling it stirs a visceral reaction.

Undertaking these challenges in a condensed nine-day span intensified the experience, driving donations and our commitment. Halfway up Snowdon, Wendy’s knee injury was severe, yet her determination was unwavering. Despite my offer to continue with Mable (our support mascot teddy), she persevered to the summit, a decision she might reconsider now, given her subsequent recovery on crutches from a torn ligament in her knee.

We’re so grateful that, when taking on these challenges, you chose to support Dogstar Foundation. How did you first find out about Dogstar and what made you decide to fundraise for us?

Stumbling upon Dogstar Foundation was a fortuitous twist of fate, as I happened upon a compelling video of your ‘Meals on Three Wheels’ campaign during a leisurely phone scroll. As someone who cherishes their own feline companions, the distress of hungry and unwell cats and dogs strikes a deep chord within me, especially knowing that such suffering is often needless.

Amidst a sea of charities doing remarkable work for animals worldwide, Dogstar’s mission stands out. Your dedication to tackling the fundamental issues of animal welfare is genuinely uplifting. It’s a testament to the idea that one person’s initiative can spark significant change. Your team’s relentless commitment to improving animal lives through comprehensive services—providing nourishment, sterilisation, rabies vaccinations and healthcare—is truly commendable.

In championing Dogstar, we hoped to bolster your initiatives, ensuring that a greater number of animals are cared for and loved. The notion that our fundraising efforts could directly benefit animals in dire need, coupled with the aspiration that your sustained endeavours might one day eradicate their suffering and the issue of overpopulation, is profoundly moving. It’s clear why Dogstar is the charity of choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone who wants to fundraise for a cause close to their heart, but doesn’t know where to start, or feels overwhelmed by the concept of fundraising?

The journey began with a simple conversation with a friend, which quickly gained momentum as my best friend injected a stream of creative ideas. Before we knew it, a wave of enthusiasm had taken hold—everyone was eager to contribute in any way they could. The lesson learned? Never underestimate the power of reaching out to friends and family. Our collective human spirit is wired to support one another, and it was this very support and encouragement that propelled us to success.

Choose a charity that tugs at your heartstrings, for it’s that emotional connection that fuels the drive to succeed. Set a goal that’s ambitious yet attainable; too little a challenge won’t do justice to your efforts or the charity, but too grand an ambition can lead to undue stress.

Transparency is key. Be clear about who you’re raising funds for, why it matters, and the personal challenges you’re undertaking.

Leverage the power of social media to amplify your message. If you’re not a social media aficionado, enlist the help of those who are to spread the word far and wide.

Gratitude goes a long way. Thank your donors sincerely and keep them informed of the progress you’re making. It’s not just about the funds raised; it’s about the journey and the collective effort.

In the grand scheme of things, the amount raised is secondary to the act of giving itself. Charities cherish every contribution, big or small. Your thoughtfulness and desire to assist are invaluable, and your recognition of their unwavering commitment and passion fuels their continued efforts.