Chris, age 50 from Lincoln, first supported St Barnabas over eleven years ago when he took part in their Strictly Come Dancing competition to raise money. It was there where he met his wife, Joanne!
Chris said, “We were partnered together to learn the waltz and salsa over a ten-week period, and the rest is history. I have St Barnabas to thank for us meeting, which is why I have supported the charity and raised money ever since, and will continue to in the future.
“My wife has also worked as the Trust Board Secretary at St Barnabas Hospice for twelve years, so it is a cause very close to our hearts.
“This year, I will be taking on four challenges in honour of the Hospice’s 40th birthday. I will be self-funding all four events, meaning every single penny I raise in sponsorship money will go directly to St Barnabas.
“The four challenges I am taking on are: the Fire Walk, the Slovenia Triple, the Giant Sportive, and the Snowdon Sunrise Trek.
“As a Chartered Health and Safety Consultant, the Fire Walk is wildly opposite to what I advise my clients, and not something I thought I would ever do! But I want to push myself out of my comfort zone and this, along with the other challenges, will certainly do that.
“I have always been active, but I think it is more important than ever for me to exercise and keep fit. I have a five-year-old son, and being an older dad, I want to keep as fit as possible so I can keep up with him in the coming years.
“For anyone new to exercise who wants to take on a challenge for St Barnabas, I recommend starting slow and not pushing yourself too fast, too early. Stick to an exercise regime that is doable, so you keep focussed, and find an exercise that you enjoy doing. For me, I love mountain biking and road biking.
“It is important to get support with any challenge you decide to do, especially if you take on multiple challenges like I am doing this year. St Barnabas has always been very supportive with any fundraising challenge I have decided to do, and I know they will be there for me this time around too.
“I’ve set up a JustGiving page, and anyone who wants to support me can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chris-owen30”
St Barnabas Hospice is encouraging supporters to take on their own challenge to raise money for their 40th birthday. Visit www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/40for40 to view a list of suggested challenges and register free of charge.