Seeing the Northern Lights has always been at the very top of my bucket list. It’s one of those wonders you hear so much about but rarely get to experience with your own eyes; even when they appear at home, you’re often just looking at them through a phone screen! When I saw the trek mentioned in Beat’s newsletter, I started reading and just thought, "Wow, this is my dream!"
For me, the Northern Lights have always symbolised hope and beauty - something truly worth striving for, even when it feels just out of reach. This trek wasn't just a physical trip; it represented my emotional journey through the darkness toward the light of recovery. For anyone who has faced these challenges, the path can feel long and can have its setbacks, but this trek was my way of showing that recovery is worth every bit of effort. Just as Beat brings light to so many lives, I wanted my journey to inspire others to find hope and seek the support they deserve.
I honestly can’t praise Beat enough! I never imagined I’d receive so much kindness and practical support for my fundraising. They truly go above and beyond to make you feel like part of a team. They sent me absolutely everything I needed to get started, from a lovely t-shirt to wear with pride, to coin collection boxes and informative leaflets. They even provided balloons and stickers! Knowing the team was there to back me up made the whole process feel much less intimidating and a lot more like a shared mission.
When I first signed up, I’ll admit I had a little "wobble" and didn't have much faith that I’d hit my target. But Beat was so helpful with creative ideas, and once I got started, I actually ended up exceeding my goal! What worked best for me was bringing people together. I hosted several events - some karaoke, but mostly Ceilidh evenings. It was so lovely to see everyone, even those who had never danced a step in their lives, joining in. We had bingo, a bar and tuckshop, and I reached out to local organisations for raffle prizes. For friends further away, we did online quizzes, and my partner even did a 24-hour live stream! I’m so incredibly thankful to everyone who donated, cheered me on and came to my events.
The trek was simply breath-taking. Meeting other people hiking for charity was a huge highlight. There was a group of us trekking for Beat and together we have raised over £30,000! The scenery was like nothing else; we climbed an active volcano, trekked between tectonic plates, and explored lava caves. But the most "pinch-me" moment happened one night after we’d been told the clouds were too thick to see the lights.
A few of us decided to go for a wander anyway, and we spotted a thin grey line spreading across the sky. We realised it was the start of the aurora! We ran into a field in the gale-force winds - still in our pyjamas - and watched as the sky turned green. We knew who wanted to be woken if the lights were to appear, so we made sure nobody missed out! And if that wasn’t already the best night of my life, on our final night in Reykjavik, it happened again. My friends and I ran through the city, down Rainbow Street and through the parks, chasing the lights in our coats and hats. We probably looked a bit mad running around in our pyjamas, but it was pure magic.
If you’re looking at the fundraising target and feeling nervous, my best advice is: just go for it! I didn't think I could do it either, but you absolutely can. Iceland’s landscapes are stunning, and the chance to see the lights dancing is something you’ll never forget.
I’d suggest doing a bit of training in your actual kit before you go - I was a total beginner and used my trekking poles for the first time in Iceland! Don’t worry about being "fast" enough, either. You trek as a team and only go as fast as the slowest person. The guides are so supportive, and you’ll find that the more experienced trekkers are always happy to lend a hand. You’re all in it together!
Want to take on a challenge like Millie's? Take a look at our incredible overseas events here: Runs, Treks & Challenges
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