Radstock mum, Debbie Saffin, who over the years has suffered ongoing ill health, is taking on a challenge of a lifetime – as part of the second trekking adventure organised by the Royal United Hospital to raise funds for the Cancer Care Campaign.

In October, Debbie will put on her walking boots to hike the Himalayas and discover the spiritual home of the Dalai Lama, as part of the Forever Friends Appeal's India Trekking Team. Bytaking on this incredibly physical challenge, Debbie will be stepping firmly outside her comfort zone.

Having spent much time as a patient at the RUH, she explains: "I am also doing this trek to say a huge thank you to the RUH for their support over many years, which has enabled me to conquer my ill health, instead of it conquering me.

"They have not just saved my life from a close-to-death experience, but continue to help me. They have been extremely caring, supportive and understanding and always willing to answer any questions and to give advice.

"I couldn't have hoped for a better team of people to be there, not just for me, but also my family. I have also lost a loved one from cancer and therefore appreciate how much this Centre will benefit our community.

"I can't think of a better way to say thank you than to help raise funds for this new Centre. I know I will find this challenge extremely difficult, but none the less, I remain determined to complete this trek for the benefit of others."

The RUH Cancer Care Campaign is currently over halfway to achieving its aim of raising £8.5 million, which will contribute vital funds to the building of a pioneering new Cancer Centre for the RUH.

Debbie continues: "I currently suffer from a severe skin condition that affects my feet, which can cause extreme pain when walking. I have used holistic therapies not just to gain physical, but mental strength through this extremely tough journey. I practice a meditation technique, 'Mindfulness' which is also practiced by the Tibetan people of the Dalai Lama.

"At first, I thought that this challenge was unachievable and totally out of the question, but with the support of the RUH, friends and family, I truly believe I can do this and if I can, surely anyone can."

Departing in October 2015, the Forever Friends Appeal's India Dalai Lama Challenge, in association with Global Adventure Challenges, is to trek for 67km over five days through this fascinating region of North India at the heart of the world's highest mountain range. Explore the Kingdom of Gaddi – a semi-nomadic race who wander the high passes with their cattle – passing Hindu settlements and Buddhist Monasteries with spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains. This incredible challenge will end with time to explore the incomparable Taj Mahal, the greatest monument to love ever built.

If you would like to join Debbie and travel to Northern India to raise funds towards the build of a pioneering new Cancer Centre for the Royal United Hospital (or another department in the hospital of your choice), the Forever Friends Appeal will be holding an 'India Experience Evening' at the RUH on Wednesday, 28th January to learn more about the trek and the RUH Cancer Care Campaign.

If you are interested, or would like more information, contact Laura on: 01225 821535 or email: [email protected]">[email protected]. Alternatively, visit http://www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk">www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk

Debbie's first fundraising event will be a Valentine's Evening at Welton Rovers on Friday, 13th February, with a disco, auction of promises and live music from the All Stars, who are reforming after the success of last year's RUH fundraising event at the club for the 2014 China Trekkers, Karen and Becky. For more information and tickets,contact Debbie on: 07973 374647.

Debbie is also the Chair of the local fundraising group for the RUH's Cancer Care Campaign, which meets on the first Monday of every month at Welton Rovers at 7 p.m. Anyone who would like to help with fundraising for the cause is welcome to volunteer – at the moment, the group are looking at events that can be held in the local area and their main aim is to have fun, whilst doing something positive for the community. Why not join them! Email: [email protected]">[email protected]

If you would like to sponsor Debbie on her trekking challenge, visit: http://www.justgiving.com/Debbie-Saffin">www.justgiving.com/Debbie-Saffin