Aged 6, Kara was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, a rare form of blood cancer. She was lucky enough to have been treated on the amazing Starlight ward at Bristol Children's Hospital. After 6 months of intensive chemotherapy, she was able to 'ring the bell' at the end of her journey in the hospital. Always fit and active, the doctors, nurses and physios helped Kara to have time to exercise whenever possible, and this had a hugely positive impact on her recovery and helped her through the difficult times of spending such long periods of time in hospital away from her family and friends. 

Now aged 9, she enjoys swimming, aerial circus, tumbling, netball, cycling, skiing and cross-country running, and has a packed programme every week! Her recovery is down to her own determination, the support of our families, friends and colleagues, and the incredible work of the Haematology/Oncology department and the staff of Starlight Ward. This dedicated paediatric unit also provides the South West bone marrow/stem cell transplantation service. Kara started talking about this challenge not long after her treatment finished, and wanted to take it on to fundraise for the ward that took such fantastic care of her.

Although not the classical 24-hour challenge, climbing these 3 peaks in three days will be a huge achievement, and one that as a family we hope will raise much-needed funds for Starlight Ward, along with giving a positive message for those children and their families still undergoing treatment. The challenge takes place 14-16th April 2022, hopefully with some good weather!

Please support Kara in her quest - any amount large or small will make a huge difference to the staff, patients and parents on Starlight.