Spotlight on ... Maria Digweed

What inspired you to climb Mount Kilimanjaro for charity?

I lost my husband to cancer 21 months ago. Last September would have been his 50th birthday, and I never did anything special to mark it. This is my way of doing something both for him and the fabulous people at Macmillan Cancer Support, which provided excellent care when he was ill.

What training have you been doing?

I've been out walking most days. As I live near the Peak District, I often go there. I climbed Ben Nevis and went on a walking weekend in Wales with friends. I think I'll definitely get the travelling bug when I come back. My dream is to trek the Great Wall of China next year.

Have your children and their families been supportive?

They've been very supportive, especially as I'm about to jet off to Africa! Luckily the trip will take place during term time so it won't cause too much disruption.

How are you feeling about the challenge?

It's starting to feel real now that I'm set to leave in couple of weeks. I can't tell if I'm more excited or nervous - it's probably a bit of both.

• www.justgiving.com/j-digweed