On the 15th of January I will turn 23. Andy Bridge, a vibrant, funny, active, loyal and kind man should be celebrating his 23rd birthday on this day too, however in May 2014 Andy, and the other three members of his crew on board the yacht, Cheeki Rafiki were lost at sea in the North Atlantic.

When Andy and I were at primary school we shared birthday parties, which included swimming parties or one memorable bash where we had a visit from a wildlife sanctuary who brought owls, hedgehogs and wild rabbits for us to pet. In Andy's honour and in memory of the tousle-haired boy who was mesmerised by a hedgehog it seems only fitting that on my first birthday since Andy has been lost, I share it with him once again. So I ask that family and friends who would normally buy me a present or a drink at the pub instead donate to Frensham Ponds Sailability, a charity close to Andy, that offers people, who because of a long term illness or disability, required support to sail. Andy found such joy being outside and this joy should be open to all.

Of course this opportunity to donate is available to all and I would hugely appreciate and welcome donations from anyone in Andy's memory, so in advance be you my friend/family member, or Andy's or a perfect stranger; thank you.

Happy Birthday Andy. We miss you.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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