Stewpote all started because of my younger sister, Hattie. She was one of the most wonderful people you could have known. She had the most infectious laugh and would literally light up a room when she walked into it. People often said how she was like a 'ray of sunshine'.

Hattie was born with Hydrocephalus, which is when there is a build-up of fluid on the brain. The excess fluid puts pressure on the brain, which can damage it and as a result Hattie was born with special needs. Nevertheless, she did not let this hold her back, and as many would agree, she became an extremely determined young woman.

However, in 2013, Hattie was tragically diagnosed with a brain tumour which was life threatening - she was only 24.  It turned our world upside down and broke all our hearts. During this time she became bed bound, and all I wanted to do was give her food that was easy to eat, nourishing and comforting - essentially slow-cooked food. I started reading up on books about health and nutrition, particularly from a cancer point of view. I read how when you have a weak immune system, your body digests food that has been slow-cooked better, which means you conserve energy. Also, any possible bacteria that may be in the food is killed off in the lengthy cooking process, making it safer to eat. This really enforced what I was trying to do to care for Hattie, and I set about to cooking nutritious meals for her with the hope it would make her feel better. 

Following a wonderful Christmas together, Hattie's condition deteriorated and she became really sick, quicker than we had expected. She sadly passed away in January 2014.  Since then, even though things have been really hard, I have made it my mission to keep Stewpote alive by continuing the business idea I created with Hattie.

I am deeply passionate about Stewpote, and determined to use it as a platform to raise some money for a charity close to mine and my family's heart. The charity is called Shine, and supports individuals and families affected by spina bifida and hydrocephalus, the condition Hattie was born with. My dream is to help people similar to Hattie, to create new and exciting opportunities for them, whilst also bringing awareness to these two lesser known conditions.

My first initiative in raising money for Shine will be a 27 mile trek around the Peak District with my sister Phoebe, and some of my closest friends. The trek must be completed in under 12 hours which is going to be a challenge for all of us, especially as we aren't used to walking such distances in London! 

It would mean the world to my family and I if you could support our first challenge, and donate whatever you can to this very special charity. Thank you in advance, and wish us luck! 

www.stewpote.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkPozETa_YY