Ben Nevis Challenge!
Despite having an ear condition that causes severe vertigo, a Darlington dad is preparing to take on the highest mountain in the UK.
Steven Brassell suffers from Ménière’s disease, a rare progressive balance disorder that causes dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
Today he'll take on the biggest challenge of his life by climbing Ben Nevis in Scotland, alongside his wife's uncle and veteran Ray Bragg.
The 37-year-old hopes he'll be able to raise money for the Ménière’s Society as well as informing more people about the symptoms of this condition.
Only around 1 in a 1000 people develop the condition, which can also lead to hearing loss.
Steven says he's worried about what could happen if he takes ill during the climb.
He said:
"Weeks ago I was feeling really good about this but the closer I get to the actual day, the more I am starting to overthink what might happen if I get taken ill during the climb and can’t move for hours on end.
I just hope my anxiety doesn't trigger my symptoms before or during the big day.
We are doing this to raise greater awareness with the condition, I don't think anybody knows about it.
With me doing this walk, I'm really an advocate for all the other sufferers out there."
You can donate on Steven's JustGiving page HERE and for more information about Ménière’s, call their helpline on 01306 876883.