After entire family served in the military, local raises funds for SSAFA

27 June 2024

Miah West, who lives in Gravesend, has seen almost every member of her family serve in the British Armed Forces. This Saturday she will be giving back by participating in the 13 Bridges Challenge for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

Miah’s father Peter was a Corporal in the Adjutant General’s Corps, as part of the Staff and Personnel Support branch. He was nearly killed after driving over a mine and left the Army with blindness in one eye and physical disabilities that make it difficult to walk or stand upright.

Her uncle Phillip served 25 years as a Sergeant in the Army, spending 10 years in the Royal Green Jackets and 14 years in the Royal Signals. He too returned from his time in service covered in scars and with shrapnel permanently lodged in his body. Her grandfather Christopher served in the Royal Navy as well.

Miah said this about her connection to the Armed Forces: “My great grandfather, great grandmother, my grandfather, my father, my uncle, everyone has served for various periods of time. Supporting veterans has always been important in my heart, to honour those who fought and continue to fight for our freedoms.”

The 13 Bridges Challenge is a 10-mile route throughout London, crossing 13 of its most iconic bridges and taking in the sights and sounds of the city. This will be Miah’s first time doing a distance challenge, and although she suffers from arthritis that may make it difficult, she is not going to let that stop her.

“Even though it may be hard on my body, I think that bringing attention to and raising money for these causes is so imperative. Every penny donated goes towards saving people’s lives and helping them out of horrific situations. If this isn't worth it, I don't know what is.”