Schoolgirl Takes on Heroes Hike

An 11-year-old from Sleaford is taking on a 27km (17 mile) hike next month, to thank the team that has been supporting her family for the past 12 months.

Edith Shaw, a pupil at St George's Academy, is being joined on her challenge by Helen Sirrell, who is a Veterans' Clinical Advisor, when she takes on the Heroes Hike through the Lincolnshire Wolds on 26 September. Helen has played an important role in supporting Edith's dad Matt and the whole family, after he suffered a devastating stroke in March last year.

Edith said, "I don't know what we would have done without Helen's help. I can see what a big difference it's made to my mum and dad. When I heard about the Heroes Hike, I thought it was my chance to give something back." 

Edith's dad Matt served in the British Army for 24 years on the tanks in the Queens Royal Lancers and as a Dog Handler and Trainer with the Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) with numerous deployments to Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Mali, Pakistan and Tunisia. 

After leaving service in 2024, the family were looking forward to spending more time together. However, in March 2025, Matt suffered a stroke at the age of 45. Matt was initially dismissed by the NHS as having a migraine and was discharged home. Less than 48hrs later he had a severe stroke at home, which resulted in him having to undergo emergency surgery to reduce the swelling in his brain, and left him with life changing disabilities

Initially Matt was unable to walk, or use his left arm, however after 18 months of rehabilitation, he is now able to walk with a stick but remains in rehabilitation for his disabilities and still struggles with everyday tasks.

Edith's mum Katrina, who also served for 10 years with the RAVC, explained, "When we felt like we had no one to turn to, Helen stepped in and has truly transformed our lives. I was having to fight so hard to get the right support for Matt, whilst working full-time myself. It was overwhelming to be honest. But thanks to Helen, we've been able to start being more like a family again."

One of Matt’s goals was to be able to work in with dogs again. Through Helen’s contacts, she has put Matt in touch with HMP Dog Training Team, who have offered Matt a volunteer role, helping to train the dogs working within the prison service and complete welfare checks. This opportunity will hopefully help Matt integrate back into employment as he progresses through his rehabilitation.

Katrina added, "Helen has been there to listen to us, and has come up with practical solutions that are helping us to move forward. We've had funding for equipment for Matt and through the Occupational Therapy team we've been able to get support to make adjustments at home for him. Matt's also had support from the mental health team and has been able to attend a veteran's disability friendly outdoor adventure session that's helped. Helen's helped to empower and motivate us, when we felt we couldn't carry on."

Edith is breaking in some walking boots and has been trying to do a couple of hours of walking a week. She thinks it will take her about six hours to complete the route. She added, "I set myself a target of £500 but would like to try and raise as much money as possible. It's going to be tough doing the hike, but I think I can do it, and I've got Helen with me for support."

If you would like to support Edith's challenge go to Edith's Heroes Hike.