IN April 2006 I am going to travel to Costa Rica to take part in the journey of a lifetime, with my school, RNIB New College, Worcester.

I have a condition known as Albinism and I have been registered blind for a number of years, so a trip like this is going to provide me with a fantastic experience.

The journey is going to cost a lot of money and I am trying to find local support to help me raise £1,000, to put towards the cost of the expedition.

What a trip like this would provide is an overwhelming experience -- it would be a once in a lifetime opportunity, not only the chance to meet and take part in the lives of people from a different culture, but to encounter the sights, smells and sounds of a living, breathing rainforest.

While there I will experience the wonders of Costa Rica, including its varied cultures, ecological zones and animal life -- plus one of the most active volcanoes in the world.

In the rainforest I will get an understanding of the size and variation in vegetation. We will also be involved in environmental projects with giant turtles.

This hands-on experience will benefit both myself and also the people I come into contact with when I return.

I hope that as a result of this trip I will gain greater self-confidence, learn new skills and have lasting memories that will influence my everyday life.

I am hoping that local people will give me a hand to raise the money and help me to achieve this dream.

If you can help in any way, you can write to me or contact me on 01772 863076.

NIKKI WYNN (Miss), 'Loretta Cottage', 153 Lightfoot Lane, Preston PR4 0LA.