Sophie Burrows, a 23-year-old from Cheddar, is about to embark on a challenging 100km trek deep into the Colombian jungle, a heartfelt mission to raise funds and awareness in memory of her two brothers who tragically took their own lives.
Departing the UK on Friday, November 21, Sophie will spend a week navigating the demanding terrain through trekking and rafting. Her journey holds profound personal significance: her older brother Luke passed away at 28 when she was just 16, and her younger brother Ben died earlier this year at age 20.
Determined to honour their memory, Sophie is raising money for the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), a charity committed to suicide prevention. “Hearing that Ben had died was the worst moment of my life,” Sophie reflects. “It was impossible to imagine life without them. We were incredibly close – Ben and I were only a year apart – but I’ve learned to build a life for myself despite the pain.”
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A psychology graduate from the University of Manchester, Sophie now works compassionately supporting individuals with dementia at St Monica’s Trust. “At the start of this year, I couldn’t see myself reaching my next birthday,” she admits. “But now I’m a proud graduate and working in a role where I can give back, all while raising funds for a cause so close to my heart.”
Her preparation involved countless hours of walking and gym training, particularly on the Stairmaster, despite it not being the most exciting routine. At the time of writing, Sophie has already raised nearly £1,700.
“This challenge pushes me beyond my comfort zone,” she says. “I’ve found it difficult to openly talk about the reasons behind this trek, but I’ve realized it’s vital to share my story to help others.”
Every penny raised will contribute toward preventing other families from experiencing similar heartbreak. “Ben and Luke were two beautiful souls who are utterly irreplaceable,” Sophie says. “I want to transform their loss into positive change by raising awareness and support.”
Sophie’s journey is even more remarkable considering her recent battle with hydatid disease, which required extensive surgery that removed a third of her liver, her spleen, bowel lining, and gall bladder. Her mother Sarah admires her resilience: “She’s one determined girl who has faced so much – losing the boys and her health struggles – and yet, she approaches this challenge with unwavering courage.”
Sophie will join eight others on this expedition, each representing causes close to their hearts. The challenge is organised and funded by Venari Partners, an executive recruitment firm.
“I’m excited and a bit nervous,” Sophie admits just before departure. “I haven’t fully packed yet, but I’m ready for whatever comes.”