In just a few days, our Payroll Manager, Cheryl Harvey, will embark on an incredible adventure, trekking 110km across Cambodia to Angkor Wat to raise over £5,000 for Promise Dreams, The APC’s chosen charity.

      

Over 10 days, Cheryl will travel through rice paddies, farmlands and remote villages, ending at the breathtaking Angkor Wat. It will be a physically and mentally demanding challenge, with long days on foot, limited electricity and no Wi-Fi, but one she is ready to take on for a cause close to her heart.

Promise Dreams is a national charity dedicated to bringing joy to seriously and terminally ill children by fulfilling their dreams. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, meeting their celebrity hero, or receiving specialist equipment to improve daily life, Promise Dreams helps create cherished memories for children and their families during difficult times.

We caught up with Cheryl ahead of her trip to hear how she’s feeling, what training and preparation she’s been completing, and why this cause means so much to her.

Cheryl, how are you feeling as you get ready to fly out?

“The nerves have definitely started to kick in now! I’ve got my visa, my Promise Dreams T-shirts and my kit all packed, so I’m ready to go. I’ve always wanted to visit Asia and experience its incredible culture and scenery, so this feels like the perfect opportunity to challenge myself while supporting a cause that truly means something to me. I’ll be venturing off the beaten track, discovering the real Cambodia, staying with local families, and embracing a completely different way of life. It won’t be easy, but I know it will be worth it.”

 

What has your preparation been like and have you had to overcome any obstacles?

“It’s been quite a journey getting to this point. Training has definitely had its challenges, but I’ve tried to stay focused and keep a positive mindset throughout. There have been moments where I’ve had to take things a little slower, but I’ve kept pushing forward, knowing it’s all for such a worthwhile cause. The thought of supporting a charity that makes such a difference to children and their families has really kept me motivated.”

 

What makes this trek so special for you?

“This will be my third charity trek, after completing the Sahara Desert in 2010 and Iceland in 2014. Cambodia feels completely different, though. It’s a place I’ve never been to and I’ll be completely off the grid, surrounded by an amazing group of people. It’s going to be one of my biggest challenges yet, but Promise Dreams makes it all worthwhile. It’s about giving children and families moments of happiness when they need them most, and knowing I can help make that happen means everything.”

 

Why did you choose to support Promise Dreams and what does this fundraising mean to you?

“Promise Dreams is an amazing charity that helps seriously ill children experience joy and create lasting memories with their families. Each of us knows someone who has been in this situation - for me, it was Max, the son of a family friend. He was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at just three years old and fought bravely for seven years. We followed his journey through countless tests, surgeries, long hospital stays and endless rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Max sadly lost his battle at the start of 2025, but one of the highlights of his life was a trip to Peppa Pig World organised by a charity like Promise Dreams.

For me, this trek is about so much more than the physical challenge; it’s about bringing moments of happiness to children and families going through incredibly tough times. Knowing that every donation helps make a dream come true is truly rewarding, and I feel honoured to support such a meaningful cause.”

 

You’ve nearly reached your fundraising target – how can people help you get across the finish line?

“I’ve raised £4785 so far, which is amazing, but I’d love to hit my £5,000 goal before I leave. Every donation, big or small, helps make a difference. You can support me through my JustGiving page https://www.justgiving.com/page/cheryl-harvey-1?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL, and I’d be so grateful for any help. It’s all for such a brilliant cause!”

 

As Cheryl prepares to set off on this incredible journey, we’ll be cheering her on every step of the way. We can’t wait to follow her adventure across Cambodia and see the positive impact she’ll make for Promise Dreams.

Cheryl, the whole of The APC is behind you! ❤️

For media enquiries please email apc-team@schonandco.com.