Maria trains for her Arctic trek
Pulling a heavy tyre through a local park might attract curious glances for Maria Stripling as she trains for her Arctic trek.
But the Didsbury-based event organiser will do whatever it takes to build her strength for her three-day expedition in March.
An 80-kilometre walk in temperatures below minus 30 degrees Celsius, pulling her belongings on a sled, wearing snow shoes, will be the ultimate test of endurance.
I prefer warmth to be honest and don't cope very well with the cold. I get circulation problems even on a mild summer's day but it'll be an inspiring personal challenge. It'll be a tough, emotional and physical experience and a journey to remember friends who've passed. Maria Stripling
Maria is hoping the organised trek will generate a quarter of the £16,000 she wants to raise for St Ann’s.
Other fundraising plans reflect her love of gardens. Maria is organiser of Didsbury Open Gardens and is hoping the next event on Sunday, June 21, will boost her total.
She is also offering garden makeovers for home owners by using her creative gardening skills to suggest plant ideas and designs.
For a garden consultation email maria.stripling@zen.co.uk and to donate visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mariastriplingstannstrek