THE partner of a Royal Marine killed in Afghanistan will brave Snowdon to mark the 11th anniversary of his death.
Sonia Fleming, of Rhyl, will raise money for Scotty’s Little Soldiers and Rhyl Commandos JFC through the challenge on June 19.
Sonia's partner - Lance Corporal Michael Taylor, from Charlie Company, 40 Commando Royal Marines, serving as part of Combined Force Sangin, was killed in Afghanistan on Tuesday, June 22 2010.
The couple had sons Ethan, Wesley and Charlton who are now aged 24, 22 and 11.
Sonia, who describes herself as "petrified of heights", said the upcoming sunrise climb of Snowdon is "completely out of her comfort zone".
"Michael, Ethan and Wesley often used to do Snowdon," Sonia said.
"I would drive them there and wait at the bottom for them but I am determined that it is something I need to overcome and what better way than doing it for Michael's anniversary and to raise much needed funds for the charity.
"Scotty's Little Soldiers have helped my children two-fold. The happiness and the sense of belonging to be a part of a charity with children who have been through the same experiences as them is huge for me. I have seen first hand how much Scotty's Little Soldiers has helped each of them.
"Also Rhyl Commandos JFC is a football club I set up 10 years ago in 2011 to keep Michael's memory alive to allow children who otherwise would not be accepted or part of a team to participate in sport and feel the sense of belonging."
Sonia, who spoke with Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge in November 2020 to commemorate Remembrance week, will be joined by 11 others for the challenge.
The fundraisers will all wear t-shirts and they are asking for a donation (through their gofundme page) if any businesses want their name advertised on the back.
Lance Corporal Taylor was 30 years old when he died.
Sonia described her partner as her soul mate. In a tribute at the time of his death, she said: "You were the best loving partner and dad anyone could have asked for. You lived to be a hero and died a hero. We are all extremely proud of you and always will be. Your legacy will live on through your three wonderful boys who will inspire to be just like you."
A former British Army soldier, Lance Corporal Taylor joined the Royal Marines on April 26 2004. After passing for duty as a Royal Marines Commando he joined 45 Commando, based in Arbroath, Scotland.
Sonia added: "Fundraising is a massive help to me and the boys to educate people and help others. I think it has helped set them up as adults to help others and think of others.
"Keeping Michael's memory alive is important to us all, to show how even in sadness you can still think of others and keep his memory alive.
"I also think it helps Charlton who has no memories of dad to realise how many people actually care and want to help.
"Michael would be amazed me doing this as he knew how scared of everything I am.
"Sometimes it feels like forever since we have heard his voice and seen him and other days, it feels like yesterday."
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