“I’ve got you!”
Those three words, spoken as I panicked in ice-cold, muddy water, perfectly captured the spirit of our Tough Mudder fundraising event.
I was out of my depth, literally and mentally, struggling to catch my breath after plunging into an icy pit. A taller teammate, able to reach the bottom, took hold of my elbow and held me up. We were only on the fourth obstacle, yet that moment summed up everything the challenge was about: support in all its forms.
Six months earlier, we sent out a call for volunteers to take on a gruelling obstacle course involving, among other things, electric shocks and barbed wire, all to raise money for charity. To our surprise, all 20 places were filled immediately by an enthusiastic team, eager to raise funds for a meaningful cause while pushing themselves physically and mentally.
Following a company-wide vote, we chose to support The OLLIE Foundation, a local charity whose mission is to eliminate the belief that suicide is the only option, especially among young people. The foundation works to reduce stigma and provide training that encourages early intervention and effective prevention.
In the lead-up to the event, the team trained hard while drumming up sponsorship in any way they could. The day itself was tough: narrow tunnels were crawled, high walls climbed, fears confronted, and knees grazed. Yet the camaraderie never wavered. Every obstacle was met with energy, determination and plenty of grit. It was teamwork at its best.
Getting over high walls takes more than strength, it can take someone willing to be a human stepladder to lift you up. It serves as a symbolic metaphor for what The OLLIE Foundation strives to do every day; they act much like a human stepladder, lifting and supporting people through their darkest moments.
After the event, we had the privilege of meeting one of the charity’s founders, the humble and deeply inspiring Chris Sibley. He described his mission as simply: ‘wanting to maintain humanity and help people wherever he can’.
Listening to Chris was a profound experience. His honesty and vulnerability made his message all the more powerful and the achievement even more fulfilling. I feel immensely proud to be part of such a dedicated and compassionate team, raising vital funds for a cause who provide support, in all its forms, to those who need it the most.
To everyone who supported us, a heartfelt thank you. We raised over £5500. And to those wanting to know more about the life-changing work of The Ollie Foundation, or would like to explore their training and resources, please visit theolliefoundation.org
Watch the highlights below and see the moments that made it so special.
