My FIt List

Since my diagnosis of an inoperable brain tumour, I’ve had what most would call a ‘Bucket List’. But I don’t like the name ‘Bucket List’, it just feels all wrong. To me, it’s about taking life by the horns and saying “F IT!” instead. So, I’ve replaced the ‘B’ with an ‘F’ and created my own type of list, the #FITList.

It’s a list of all those things that once seemed impossible or too far out of reach. And now, as I continue on this journey, I’ve realised that it’s less about ticking off every single item and more about setting goals and having fun while we’re at it. If we manage to tick even one off, then that’s a win in my book!

Through my platform, Influential Stars, I’m using my own #FITList to not only inspire others facing life-threatening illnesses but also to help them experience their own extraordinary moments while raising funds for important causes. This is all about putting the FUN back into FUNdraising and making it something to remember!

If you’re interested in advertising your activities on my platform for creators and celebrities to choose as part of their #FITList Challenges, or if you want to help me accomplish something special while raising money for charitable causes, please get in touch! I’d love to hear from you!

Watch: What is a FIT List Challenge?

Drive a Fast Car
Who hasn’t ever wanted to get behind the wheel of a fast car? I mean it can’t just be me? It must be such an exhilarating experience?

One more FIT to add to the list!
Feed the Animals at Paradise Zoo
Ruby and I absolutely adore animals! I couldn’t think of anything better than to take her to a Zoo and to have the experience, first hand, of feeding them. Up close and personal!
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Did you know that a hot air balloon ride exposes you to a higher quality of fresh air than you are likely to experience on the ground? It has numerous benefits, including increasing energy, producing a higher level of serotonin – the hormone that promotes happiness – and fostering a general sense of wellbeing.

I can see #teamconnell now, peering over the basket whilst doing a fundraiser in ore of the beauty and seeing what this country has to offer.

Definitely a must do in your life time! One I’ll be adding to my FIT list. Will you?
Own a Motor Home
I attempted something similar before. I bought a static caravan with the intention of using it as a holiday home and offering it to families who had suffered a brain tumour but unfortunately that venture didn’t quite turn out how I’d hoped… There was no means of communication where I was. No way of calling out even from my mobile because the service was awful and therefore was too much of a risk for me should something had, happened. I ended up selling it back to the site after 6 weeks. I still want to own a home of sorts but instead I’ve decided that should I ever come into any money I would buy a Motorhome instead! Id love to own my own motorhome, especially one that I could add a touch of TLC to! DIY motorhome! What better way to tour the country and see the world at the same time? One I shall be adding to my FIT list and one I aim to achieve in my lifetime.
Visit Windsor Castle
I’ve lived in the UK for 44 years and still have not ventured out to see the amazing grounds of Windsor Castle! And we are less than an hours drive away! Step into the life of Kings and Queens with a visit to the magnificent Windsor Castle. At nearly 1,000 years old, Windsor is the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world, and is the family home of the British Royal Family, as well as an official residence of the King. It is certainly worth a visit! Admire the beautifully furnished state apartments, whose walls are filled with paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens, and which is often used by the Royal Family to host special events. Visit the Queen Mary’s Doll House, the world’s most famous dolls house, filled with finely crafted and detailed objects. (Ruby would love this) Catch a glimpse of the semi-state rooms, several luxuriously decorated private apartments that were built for George IV. And end an inspiring trip with a visit to St George’s Chapel. Its stone fan vaulting makes it one of the finest Gothic Chapels in England. After your visit, explore rest of Windsor town with our hop on hop off bus.  Another one I need to add to my FIT list!
Glastonbury Festival
I didn’t realise how much of a festival lover I was until I went to Stanton Calling a few years back with Ruby and some friends.

What an experience! We loved every moment of it! Well I say every, we actually left a day later as we had pitched a tent up right in the heart of the festival and didn’t get much sleep. So much so my head pressure started to ended up leaving at 6am the following morning.

However, that said… I’d do it all again and in a heartbeat! Probably would pitch up right in the centre this time though and more of a glamping experience than an overnight tent… But what better than to visit one of the UK’s biggest festivals going at Glastonbury Festival!

TICK already added to the FIT list…
Afternoon Tea at the Ritz
What better way to enjoy a tier of sandwich and cakes than at the iconic Ritz hotel.

I’ve always wanted to indulge! So I’ve added this to my FIT list! I’m not sure though who would eat all the cakes first? Me or Ruby??

Food for thought…
Zip Line Experience
Soar over Penrhyn Quarry, where you can travel at speeds of up to and over 100 mph while taking in unbeatable views of Snowdonia.

Prepare for a truly unique and exhilarating experience: the fastest zip line in the world since 2013!

I have to admit, when I was younger I was such an adrenaline junkie! Now I’m that little bit older (okay maybe not so little bit) I know the initial rush of fear would come over me especially with heights buy hey! You only live once right??

Why not add this to the FIT list?
Weekend Ghost Hunt
One does love a ghost hunt! I’ve been on a few before and loved every minute of it!

I’d love to go on more ghost hunts though! But this time, actually spend the night in a scary location!

It’s when you take part in real experiments such as table tipping, glass moving, vigils, séances, experiments and Ouija Boards that you get to feel the real experience! I’m definitely a believer!

I’d definitely add this back onto the FIT list!
Act
I’ve always seen myself as a bit of an actress! And I’ve always wanted to get behind a film crew and create a scene! Who doesn’t?

Eastenders here I come…. Another one to add to the FIT list…
Afternoon Tea Experience on a London Tour Bus
Capture the heart of the city’s culture, landmarks and history on our London routemaster bus, whilst sipping on a lovely cup of tea and enjoying the exquisite tastes of France. High tea accompanied with an array of tasty sandwiches and delicious cakes and pastries. Your London bus driver will take you round Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, The Royal Albert Hall, Marble Arch, Nelson’s Column, Downing Street and more. The Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London sightseeing tour.

Another one I’d like to add this to my FIT list especially considering I was born in London and never have…
Play LIFE Size Monopoly
Complete challenges, build houses, charge rent, escape jail and even control London’s waterworks as you travel around the life sized board earning as much money as you can by completing escape room style challenges.

There are four exciting editions of Monopoly Life sized to choose from when booking: Luxury, City, Classic and Classic Own It All and sipping cocktails with friends whilst your doing it!

Another one to add to the FIT list to do with friends!
Alice in Wonderland VR Experience
Now I get terribly disorientated and I’ve tried a VR experience before on my holidays. It was terrifying and fun at the same time! I was on a rollercoaster ride… Definitely fun, defiantly something we should all try and definitely one to add to the FIT list.
Backpack in Thailand
I lived in Thailand in 2004. It was meant to be a permanent move but I ended up coming back to the UK having then been diagnosed with a brain tumour.

I have wanted to go back to Thailand for many years and just haven’t had the chance. I’d love to go back but this time with Ruby (my daughter in hand. What an incredible experience this would be for her. I don’t even think I’d remember the places I visited now, names or locations but getting a fresh look on this beautiful country with my daughter by my side would just be a dream.

If you haven’t already visited Thailand then I must say you too should add this to your FIT list! STUNNING! Absolutely stunning. It’s a different way of life out there and I miss it.
White Water Rafting in the Lake District
One adventure I have actually already achieved but this was back in the days when social media wasn’t really about! I had the opportunity to go to Switzerland where I went on an almighty adventure paragliding as well as white water rafting!

Something I’d want to re-add to my FIT list to be able to do alongside Ruby but this time be all to capture the moment and add to my memory bank! #socialmedia

Lake District White Water Rafting is a fantastic Adventure Day Out with your family and friends. We run on various rivers in, and around, The Lake District – to give you a brilliant time, whatever the weather!
London Eye Champaign Experience
Again, lived in London most of my life but still haven’t yet had the privilege of going up on the London eye! Perhaps I was waiting for Ruby to come along to share the experience?

Get up close to London's iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. You can even see as far as Windsor Castle on a clear day! Enjoy a pod with fellow survivors whilst sipping on champaign!
Clay Pigeon Shooting
I have a glimpse memory of being at a party with my step mum and my dad set in acres of land! They did blindfold mini racing through their woods amongst many other games which included Clay Pigeon shooting.
The only part I truly remember is when my step mum went to shoot and ended up on the floor from the throw back she’d got and ever since then I’ve always wanted to do it myself LOL I guess it’s just one more thing I need to add to my FIT list…
Stay and Play at Alton Towers Theme Park
There's so much to do at Alton Towers Resort …you can escape for days! As well as the thrills of the UK's leading Theme Park, the Resort includes two incredible themed hotels, an Enchanted Village (with woodland lodges and luxury treehouses), a splashtastic waterpark and an eighteen-hole golf course.

This is somewhere I would love to take Ruby to and experience! Added the the FIT list! TICK
Paddle Boarding In Newquay
Paddle boarding in Newquay!

Now I know I can paddle board! Don't ask me why because my balance is awful but for some reason as soon as I am on a paddle board I'm riding the waves! And what better place to do it all again than in one of the UK's biggest attractions in Newquay!

TICK added onto the FIT list!
SKY Dive
A SKY Dive is something that I did many years ago for a local charity and it’s also something I’d like relive again! I have just accepted a challenge from Brain Tumour Support to endeavour to complete this as part of my FIT list and raise money for them at the same time!

If anyone is interested in taking up this challenge with me please get in touch using the 'Get In Touch' tab on the website.

Watch this space!
London In The Sky
Up at the O2, London in the SKY run six different sky-high dining experiences and there’s something for everyone and whichever flight you’re on you can expect an indulgent menu accompanied with great vibes and first class views!
Stay at the Crazy Bear Hotel
Stay at the Crazy Bear, there's no doubt you'll have at least heard of the Thai restaurants, bars and hotels, which can be found in Beaconsfield, Stadhampton and London.

Since opening in 1993, the unique restaurant has become known for its incredible cuisine, inventive cocktails and interesting interiors. This is one thing I would like to tick off my FIT list!
Visit Alcatraz in London
Alcotraz Cell Block Two One Two promises to be one of the most unique cocktail bars in London. Once convicted, inmates are taken into an exciting world of mischief as they are instructed by a notorious bootlegging gang on the inside to smuggle-in liquor to be used to make delicious, bespoke cocktails. You won’t find a set menu of drinks here… after all, it is prison! The “serving” mixologists will deliver a range of tailored cocktails every night based on the liquor you bring and your tastes. Be as creative as you can with your attempts to smuggle-in liquor. Alternatively, the crooked guards are on your side and have a system for hiding contraband. Just make sure the warden doesn’t catch you.
WOW I didn’t event know things like this existed! What an experience! What a great way to spend quality time amongst friends and family? Definitely adding this one to my FIT list!
Ride a Horse on a Beach
Now in an ideal world I would be doing this with Ruby on a tropical beach far away galloping through the shallow waves with the wind in our hair but we can all dream! So what better than to take a ride on a beech in our home country!

There’s horse riding and there’s horse riding…

One to add to the FIT list me thinks…
Dine & Stay at Ponsbourne Pods
Would you believe I live a stone through away from this beautiful spot and still haven’t had the experience? Yes, I’ve driven down the country lanes petting the horses with Ruby but never had the chance to stop off. A unique dining experience in the beautiful countryside of Hertfordshire. Nestled in 200 acres of open greenery, this restaurant offers stunning views for diners to enjoy while indulging in the flavours of Indian and Pan-Asian cuisine. Their dining pods offer a one-of-a-kind experience, catering to groups of 2 to 12 people. Indian and Pan-Asian menus to create their perfect meal. In addition to our exceptional dining experience, they also offer a dine and stay package for those looking to make a night of it.

(Well that would be great if I wasn’t still single) lol perhaps a girly night would be called for… Added to the FIT list!
Explore the Eden Project
Trek through the world’s largest indoor rainforest and immerse ourselves in the calm fragrance of the Mediterranean Biome. Enjoying the extensive outdoor gardens, contemporary artworks, performance and storytelling. Discovering places to rest, play and eat, whilst picking up inspiring ideas to take home on how to care for the planet that cares for you.  I couldn’t think of anything more educational for Ruby let alone myself than this! One to add to the FIT list me thinks…
Take Ruby to Longleat Safari Park
One thing I remember from my dad telling me over and over again was they day my uncle took me out to Longleat Safari Park in my dads big work van driving through the lions den when we stopped to take a glimpse and one of the lions decided to climb up on my dads van putting a big dent in the roof at the same time! Now this, this is what I’d love to do again with Ruby in toe! TICK! Added to the FIT list! Drive through Britain’s No.1 Safari Park, right past some of our most astonishing residents. Count cheetah spots, wave at wolves and have a giraffe.
Visit the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds covers a huge area – almost 800 square miles – and runs through five counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire).

I would love to travel around the Cotswolds with Ruby in my dream motorhome exploring the different areas, which each have its own identity.

Explore the quintessentially English villages of honey-coloured stone; take in splendid, lively market towns; visit some of the country’s greatest palaces, castles and country houses; marvel at the natural world in acclaimed reserves and at some of the most famous arboretas in Britain; walk through breath-taking landscapes along historic trails; or make a splash in our lake-land area with its own inland beach.

Apparently, there’s a vibrant buzz in places like Cheltenham, Cirencester, Tewkesbury, Stroud and Witney. There are many exciting things to do for all the family. And an arty heartbeat too – which extends to the wealth of festivals and events that are testimony to the creative vibe of the region.

What better way to start exploring the UK in my one day obtained mobile home than in the Cotswolds! TICK I’ve added this to my FIT list!
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
Okay so my balance isn’t great and I’d probably need a bit of help getting around but who wouldn’t want to dive Inside The Crystal Maze Live Experience with Friends and Family around you?? After all you can’t hurt yourself! Padded up to the eyeballs!

Added to the FIT list - TICK
Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest in Bali
Ubud is a tiny village located in the middle of Bali. It's supposed to be one of the most beautiful places to see when you visit. Countryside, the landscape , the strong culture, the artistic things, the temples and the real local life activities in Bali such as seeing the monkeys all around.

Bali is somewhere I've always wanted to explore and what better than to it then by visiting on someone's recommendation to see the sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary! If I ever got the chance to visit Bali this would certainly be on my FIT list!

Completed FIT List

Check out some of the FIT list activities that we have completed

With your help we can tick off a whole lot more!