On January 11^th 2009 I flew out to Africa to attempt the biggest challenge of my life – climbing two of Africa's highest mountains in under two weeks. 

I started the challenge by climbing Mt Meru, Tanzania’s second highest mountain which stands at 4,566m (over four times the height of Mt Snowdon, if any of you have climbed that). I spent four tough days climbing Mt Meru, battling altitude sickness and treking across some very steep ridges - I don't normally get vertigo but I couldn't look down as I wouldn't have carried on, but luckily I managed to summit it and make it back down in one piece.

After Mt Meru I had two days to rest before climbing Tanzania’s and Africa’s highest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro (to give you some perspective again it’s about 5 and half times bigger than Snowdon).  I did quite a bit of swimming in those days to try and help my legs recover as my knees were in agony!  I then spent seven tiring days on Kilimanjaro and I made it to the summit on the sixth day to see the sun rise!  It was an extremely tough challenge but one I'll never forget. 

I am raising money for Save the Rhino International, a fantastic charity which not only helps protect critically endangered rhinos (meaning these historic creatures face a high risk of extinction) in Africa and Asia but also works with local communities, where there are rhino populations, helping to educate children, supporting local women’s groups and developing poor communities.

Please dig deep into your pockets and sponsor me whatever you can.  I know there are always a lot of people asking for sponsorship but hopefully you will see that this isn’t going to be an easy one for me to complete.....

Thank you very much
Fi x

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Save the Rhino International gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now!