I attending a Duke of Edinburgh Award program in Leicester City. The leader Bryan Freeman was amazing. He taught us how to use a compass, we backpacked and camped in the countryside of Leicestershire and North Wales we also took a trip on the canal system of Holland, sleeping on the boat. I was 13 years old when I joined and made new friends, gained new skills and made many memories. I took my first trip abroad thanks to this amazing program. I now live in St Louis, Missouri, USA and have grown into a strong independent woman. My husband and I are celebrating our son's 18th birthday today and passing on our love of travel and exploration to him. I am grateful for the opportunity to be exposed to the world at such a young age. My thoughts go out to the Royal Family at This time.