I completed all three levels through girl guiding (Rangers) so made new friends alongside school mates. A tough expedition certainly forces you together in decision making and support for each other. A wet weekend on the Pilgrim's Way, near Dorking, Surrey saw me carrying all the rucksacks through a huge puddle as I was the only one with Wellingtons!. At Gold level we cycled through 4 inches of sand on day 1. All travel to the start and back from the finish was organised by ourselves on the train. No minibuses in those days! I was introduced to the YHA and have since stayed in properties all over the world. I still communicate with one fellow expeditioner, and two I met on my Gold residential from Germany and Ireland; 44 years ago! The residential took me to the Isle of Wight, where I consequently got my first job - as a teacher. The local Youth Service supported me from day one and I volunteered as a DofE leader, and latterly was employed as a Facilitator of the Award - where I remain to this day. I have enjoyed anniversaries, and been involved in events for 25th, 35th, 40th, 50th and 60th celebrations. I met HRH at inspiring General Council conferences, Garden Parties and Palace presentations. He would always put marshals at their easy with a quip, and enjoyed advising me that when doing expeditions on the Isle of Wight," you had to be careful, not to fall off the edge". My volunteering section activities of First Aid and Lifesaving stood me in good stead for a career teaching PE. My cycling proficiency helps me promote safe expeditions on bicycles, and I gained organisational skills, and self reliance. I enjoyed training for and completing my Diamond Challenge in 2016 - kayaking round the coast of the Isle of Wight. I have met some amazing young people, many with disabilities, who show more determination to succeed than most. I have met some amazing fellow leaders - both volunteers and managers, who believe in the investment of our future - young people.