Ten intrepid trekkers are feeling on top of the world after scaling Africa’s highest peak in aid of the Hospice.
The group, which included Isabel palliative care doctor Karen Bartlam and her husband Martin as well as our trusts and foundations executive Lisa Bailey, have together raised £54,000 for our charity after reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro during their seven-day expedition in October.
Dr Karen said: “As it’s the 40th anniversary of Isabel Hospice, it seemed fitting to do a big venture as part of this, particularly as we are aware fundraising efforts were made so much more difficult during Covid.”
Every member of the team reached the 5,895m summit, overcoming challenges such as high altitude, the Barranco Wall, otherwise known as the ‘Death Wall’, and a range of terrain from rainforest to desert.
The trekkers were supported by a team of local Tanzanian porters and guides who were amazing in the support they gave, including sourcing all the water for the trek from local rivers on the mountain.
“I imagined it would be a very tough challenge, physically and mentally, but also I just didn’t know what the situation would be regarding altitude sickness, as it seemed very unpredictable,” added Dr Karen.
“One of the main highs – literally – was the fact that we all reached the top of Kilimanjaro. And this was due to the excellent team spirit, everyone looking out for each other, helping each other. The local guides, porters and support teams were also simply incredible, and without them none of this would have been possible.”
Also among the group were Joanna Earl and her nephew Tom. Joanna said: “Isabel’s Hospice at Home team has a special place in our hearts given the incredible care they provided for my lovely mum, and Tom’s granny, in the last month of her life. Our entire family, and my mum’s closest friends, were able to spend precious time at home with her thanks to the amazing and talented nursing team.
“We signed up for the trek to raise as much money as possible given the challenging circumstances that have prevailed during the pandemic, and to raise awareness of the Hospice at Home service, a heaven sent service delivered by a team of angels who individually made a huge difference to Mum and our family and, despite our sadness, collectively impacted our lives for the better.
“It was a life-changing experience made even richer by a close knit team of trekkers. Each and every one of the team made a massive difference and, together, we were able to overcome our own ups and downs, being able to walk in the shoes of patients and really experience what it’s like to be unable to breathe due to a life-limiting illness.
“Every step I took was not half as challenging as the steps my mum took throughout her cancer journey. Her strength, courage and resilience was what kept me going in my darkest moments when I was suffering terribly from altitude sickness and dehydration.”
Feeling inspired by our Kilimanjaro trekkers? You can find details of our 2023 events and challenges here.
