Derbyshire girl encourages others to take part in epic charity challenge

Tia Lewis (22) is set to trek Machu Picchu, now deemed one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, to raise vital funds for the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA).

The freelance horse rider from Ashbourne, who specialises in backing and re-schooling horses, has pledged to raise an amazing £3,365 for the lifesaving service she holds close to her heart.

“I am very passionate about supporting my local air ambulance as they play a vital role in saving lives by providing the best pre-hospital emergency care to those in need.

“DLRAA is such an important charity to those within the equestrian community, being in the countryside, we often see the crew called out to help save horse rider’s lives after an incident, or when they land in the fields to attend road traffic collisions close by – which sadly happens a lot,” said Tia.

Tia is set to take on her international adventure in Peru next March and has been training hard throughout the summer to achieve this goal which involves hiking continually for 8 -12 hours a day over four days.

She will be camping during the nights and has the added difficulty of facing altitudes of over 2,400 metres, and the variation in temperatures – but she’s excited to take on this mission.

“After skydiving five years ago to raise money for DLRAA, I thought it was time for a new challenge.

“There’s a lot of take in his world, so it would be great for more people to give back to lifesaving charities while participating in these events, it’s a great personal accomplishment and an opportunity to see this beautiful world,” added Tia.

Challenge Events Administrator for DLRAA, Laura Eaton, commented: “We are really grateful to Tia for taking on this epic adventure in support of her local air ambulance.

“Taking part in an international challenge event is such a rewarding experience and I would highly recommend anyone to get signed up and give it a go – it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity, giving you a chance to see some real wonders of the world, all whilst supporting our charity and raising lifesaving funds!”

If you’ve been inspired by Tia to take part in a challenge, your local air ambulance will support you every step of the way and help you maximise your fundraising – To sign up for a challenge please click here.

To support Tia on her fundraising quest, visit her JustGiving page here.