I'm trekking to the summit of Kilimanjaro, the highest free standing mountain in the world, to raise money for Epilepsy Action. My younger brother, Andrew, lived with Epilepsy most of his life, and it eventually caused his death last year. He would have been 30 this year.

Andrew was a very outgoing and likable person, and made the most of life despite having problems with learning difficulties and a heart condition as well as epilepsy. He was a huge fan of all things transport related, including Eddie Stobart lorries and Blackpool Transport.

He lived in Clitheroe all his life, and after our parents died, he was starting to develop his own, more independent life, with support from his friends, carers and myself. Sadly, he didn't have the chance to move into a new flat, which he was planning to do.

Andrew collapsed while he was out walking his dog through Clitheroe in January 2012. He was taken by ambulance to hospital in Blackburn, but he had already gone.

Andrew was my other half: we were opposites to each other, but supported each other because of that. I was the quiet and shy one, Andrew was much more outgoing, and would support me with that. He struggled with things requiring patience and co-ordination, which I was able to help him with. He was a great friend to me, despite the regular brotherly disagreements!

I can't describe how much I miss Andrew. My Kilimanjaro trek is in his memory, and I hope that I would have made him proud of me doing this.

I aim to raise at least £5,500 sponsorship to help Epilepsy Action continue their great work supporting those living with Epilepsy, and to help those people achieve everything that they want from life.

Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, and the highest free standing mountain in the world. Climbing Kilimanjaro will be a massive personal challenge for me, and I hope a fitting tribute for my little brother.

If you can, please make a donation, and add giftaid. Every donation will be greatly appreciated by both myself, and those supported by Epilepsy Action.

Thank you

 

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