I am super excited to be given the opportunity to trek and summit the north face of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest peak on the African continent (19340 ft - 1/2 km above Everest Base Camp!).  The trek itself is an 8 day trek up the less trodden northern face.  This provides us with a daylight summit of this incredible mountain.

When my lovely friend Annie asked me to join her on this adventure I couldn't say yes fast enough.  And then I hesitated......  Could I leave my four young sons for 11 days to take on this incredible challenge?  Any anxiety I feel about this physical and mental challenge ahead however, dwarves into insignificance when I think about the challenges faced by those I'll be raising money for....... 

The trek is COMPLETELY self funded with every penny raised through sponsorship going to The Lewis Moody Foundation.  A charity set up by my good friend and former England rugby captain Lewis Moody.  It is linked to The Brain Tumour Charity, which is at the forefront of the fight to defeat brain tumours, making a difference every day to the lives of people with a brain tumour and their families. They fund pioneering research to increase survival, raise awareness of the symptoms and effects of brain tumours and provide support for everyone affected to improve quality of life.  They are committed to having the biggest possible impact for every person affected by a brain tumour; including providing much needed respite care and organising family fun days to create some special memories for all involved.

I am honoured, humbled and motivated to raise as much money as possible for this incredible charity.  As I approach 40, I am aware that brain tumours are the most common cause of terminal cancer.  With those close to me being touched by cancer, I am determined to approach this physical and mental challenge with the courage of those suffering with the disease.  With my 4 sons encouraging me every step of the way (mainly by beating me regularly at hill sprints, and telling me to work harder!), I cannot wait to get started!

I hope you will sponsor me no matter the amount as EVERY penny will go to vital research undertaken by The Brain Tumour Charity.  

Love Kate