Celebrity Big Brother’s Jess Impiazzi has shared why Guide Dogs UK is so close to her heart and how she’ll be taking part in the charity’s February challenge.
The 32-year-old actress and former Ex on the Beach star will be conquering 2,000 burpees next month to raise money and awareness for a cause that “means the world” to her.
Jess first became involved with Guide Dogs as a teenager, when her mum, Debbie, lost her eyesight and gained her first guide dog, Kasey.
Since then, Jess has become a Guide Dogs ambassador and uses her platform to praise the life-changing work of the charity and staff.
Talking about her love and respect for the nationwide charity, Jess said: “Guide Dogs changed my mum’s life after she lost her eyesight.
“It was an extremely tough time in our family when my mum went blind - due to a rare genetic disorder called uveal effusion syndrome.
“She had lost her independence and was struggling mentally.
“When we contacted the Guide Dogs charity and eventually mum was partnered with her first guide dog, the change was phenomenal.
“Because of her guide dog, she was able to travel to the shops and get around town and her sense of freedom was restored.
“Guide Dogs means the world to us for helping my mum gain her independence and confidence back.
“Plus, we have gained the most loving and fluffy member of the family.”
After Debbie’s first guide dog sadly passed away in November 2021 due to an illness, guide dog Witcher now supports her.
In a touching Instagram post, Jess said: “Rest in peace in doggy heaven Kacey! We love you so much and thank you for taking such good care of my mum.”
Next month, Jess will be taking part in Guide Dogs February challenge and is encouraging others to take part.
“After watching my mum’s guide dog change her world, I want to always give back to the charity in any way I can,” Jess explained.
“If I can join in with a fundraiser or help raise awareness for the charity so they can continue to change other blind and partially sighted people’s lives, then I’m all for it.”
Guide Dogs are challenging participants to conquer 2,000 burpees in February to support children and adults living with sight loss in the UK.
The challenge is hosted on Facebook , where more than 1,400 people have currently signed up to take part.
Registration is free and you can choose your own target, though the charity suggests aiming for £150.
In return for your efforts, Guide Dogs will send you a free Guide Dogs branded T-shirt - just like Jess’.
Jess shared the fundraiser on her Twitter and said: “Hi guys, it’s Jess Impiazzi here and I’m doing 2,000 burpees in February to help raise money for Guide Dogs UK.
"The charity helped my mum beyond measure when she first lost her eyesight and the guide dogs have been absolutely phenomenal and life-changing.
"Don’t forget to sign up and join us and get a cool, free T-shirt like mine.”
To get involved with the February challenge, you can head to the Guide Dogs website or join the Facebook group .
