Barnstaple man to trek across Sahara
Local Barnstaple man, Reuben will trek across the Sahara Desert all in the name of charity
A Barnstaple man is gearing up for an extraordinary journey across the Sahara Desert this November, all in the name of charity.
With the noble aim of raising funds for Devon hospitals, Reuben Jay, aged 23, is set to embark on a challenging five-day trek through rugged terrain followed by two days of volunteering on a community project.
Reuben aims to raise £2,500 ahead of his trip.
Speaking exclusively to the North Devon Gazette, Reuben explained his motivation behind the daring adventure.
“I am trekking across the Sahara Desert in order to raise money for Devon hospitals,” he explained.
“I'm hoping it will help raise awareness for the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity and will help me raise sponsorships towards my walk.”
Reuben, who has already participated in a fundraising event for the same charity, emphasised the personal significance of the cause.
"This challenge is important to me, not just because it will be a great personal achievement, but because of the charity it supports," he shared.
"My mother, partner, and several of my friends work for the NHS, so the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, which supports NHS staff, patients, and their families, is one I feel should receive more acknowledgement and support."
The funds raised through Jay's endeavour will benefit the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, which provides crucial support to the North Devon District Hospital, the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and 17 community hospitals.
Reuben, however, is not the only one participating in this amazing charitable challenge.
He is actually part of a 12-member team taking on the trek for the charity.
Most of the team are from North Devon, with time remaining to sign up if and join in!
Those interested in in being apart of the Royal Devon Charity Sahara Trek can sign up here: www.royaldevoncharity.org.uk/event/sahara-trek-2024/
Additionally, the charity aids the Fern Centre at NDDH, a vital facility offering free therapy, counselling, and accommodation to cancer patients and their families.
Expressing a mix of nerves and excitement, Reuben acknowledged the daunting challenge that lies ahead.
"I am both nervous and excited about what I have signed up for," he admitted.
"I'm aware that it is going to be extremely challenging, but I'm sure it will be equally as rewarding."
Detailing the logistics of the trek, Reuben revealed that apart from brief stays in Marrakech and Ouarzazate, in Morocco, the majority of the journey will be spent sleeping under the stars in the desert, fully exposed to the elements.
As Reuben prepares to embark on this remarkable adventure, he extends a heartfelt appeal for support.
"This is the second fundraising event I have taken part in for the charity, and any donations would be greatly appreciated," he emphasised.
To support Reuben, follow this link: https://rdhc.enthuse.com/pf/reuben-jay