Matilda’s Three Peaks Challenge

Matilda on the Three Peaks route. From left: Tom (stepdad), Matilda, Keturah (friend), Melody (mum), Daisy (step mum).

Ten years on from her dad’s death, Matilda, 21, alongside her friends and family, conquered the Three Peak Challenge, raising over £2,400 for Winston’s Wish in the process.

“The Three Peaks Challenge was the first fundraising idea that came to my head. I don’t think anyone who agreed to join me actually thought I’d stick with the idea, but I did!”

The whole journey is a reminder that even in the toughest moments, there’s still room for hope and growth, and that’s why I wanted to take on the challenge for a cause that’s helping others in their own journeys.
Matilda

“In the end myself, my best friend Keturah, her brother Tom, and my mum, Melody, her partner, Tom, and my step mum, Daisy, all took part.

“There were a lot of emotions throughout the weekend, but we were all determined, especially knowing we were doing so for such a great cause.

“It helped that we got lucky with the weather, and it turned out to be most beautiful experience ever.

“I guess the Three Peaks Challenge reminds me slightly of the journey of grief, its unpredictability, the steep climbs when you least expect them, the exhaustion that hits at the most unexpected times and the quiet moments of reflection when you’re halfway up and questioning whether you can keep going. “But just like grief, you have to take it one step at a time, lean on the people around you, and trust that, even when it feels impossible, you can make it to the summit.”

Supporting Winston’s Wish

From left: Daisy (step mum), Matilda, Keturah (friend), Melody (mum) creating a 'W' during Three Peaks Challenge

Matilda, who grew up in Brighton, now manages a café in Bristol where she resides, took on the Three Peaks Challenge in 2025 in honour of her dad.

“I was so unbelievably proud that we raised over £2,400 for Winston’s Wish. It makes me happy to know that our efforts will have a positive impact on someone’s life.”

I really wanted to do something special to put a positive light on such a hard time.
Matilda

“Having seen so many young people close to me lose someone at a young age, I really wanted to do something to make a real difference.

“A lot of my friends were moved by my goal, so when it came to sharing my GoFundMe page, they were more than happy to donate and spread the word. “I think Winston’s Wish is really doing something incredible by helping people understand grief and the challenges it brings, and I’m happy I could play a part in helping with that too.”

Feel inspired by Matilda’s Three Peaks Challenge?

Matilda with her mum Melody with their arms raised at the top of the peaks, celebrating their success

Has Matilda’s Three Peaks Challenge inspired you to put your best foot forward for Winston’s Wish? Then look no further!

With walking challenges happening across the UK, throughout the year, you can find a challenge best fit for you. Simply head over to our walking challenges for more information.

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