An adventurous charity fundraiser is taking on the challenge of a lifetime in memory of a close friend and former military policeman who took his own life.
Julie Adcock, of Black Notley, will be taking part in the Heroes Cambodia Trek in March to raise money for Help for Heroes.
In August 2016 Ms Adcock’s friend, who was based at Colchester Garrison, took his own life after struggling to adapt to civilian life having spent 24 years in the military.
He suffered from post traumatic stress disorder after participating in campaigns in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, Iraq and many more.
Ms Adcock said: “He struggled upon leaving the military with depression and over the years it got a bit too much for him.
“It hit me very hard and I went away for a while and decided to start fundraising for Help for Heroes.
“I believe if he had sought help from the charity it could have saved his life. If what I am doing helps save one person then it is worth it.”
In the last year, Ms Adcock has completed a skydive, climbed Yorkshire’s three highest peaks and held countless pub quizzes and raffles to raise cash for the veteran charity.
But the nine day Cambodia trek will be her toughest challenge yet, taking her across paddy fields, dense forests and isolated villages before reaching the ancient structure of Angkor Wat.
Ms Adcock said: “Fundraising gave me a huge lift, knowing that I was helping in some small way.
“The support I have had from the charity since signing up has been amazing.
“I would encourage everyone to get involved as a volunteer.”
Visit helpforheroes.org.uk/give-support.
Donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/julie-adcock11.
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