Trekking the Everest region for DROP4DROP because EVERYONE should have access to clean water.

The Himalayan mountains have been beckoning me again. I'm heading back to the Everest region to trek the 3 High Passes and Everest Base Camp trail this March, considered perhaps as the hardest trek in the Sagarmatha region. Five years ago, I attempted this trek and was tested physically, mentally and emotionally on all levels. But what I got out of the experience was more than just spectacular views of the ancient magical Himalayan mountains, but an incredible spiritual journey of self-discovery, self-transformation and self-awakening...I am still on this journey today.

As one treks through the local villages and challenging trails, water increasingly becomes a precious resource. One is constantly reminded of those less privileged, of those who do not have access to clean water not just in Nepal but also in many parts of the world, something we tend to take for granted in our lives everyday.

I am fundraising for DROP4DROP who is a UK independent charity on a mission to alleviate the World Water Crisis. Your support will help to transform lives through the projects and partnerships with the communities who need it most. DROP4DROP is heavily involved with many communities around the world that are experiencing a water crisis such as India and Africa. Any amount that you donate to DROP4DROP is deeply appreciated! EVERYONE should have access to clean water. March 22nd has been declared World Water Day since 1993. It is a United Nations observance day. The theme this year is Groundwater: Making the invisible visible. The UN also uses this day to highlight the importance of water usage and how our use of water can help reduce floods, droughts, scarcity and pollution, and how it can help fight climate change itself. As climate change gets worse, groundwater will become more and more critical.

In addition to raising money for clean water, I am dedicating this trek to my dearest 88 year-old uncle who has recently been diagnosed with the irreversible lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis. The scarring and thickening of his lungs mean it is hard for him to breathe deeply sometimes. Unfortunately there is no cure nor treatment for it which means he will experience more shortness of breath as the condition gradually worsens.

As I trek higher into the mountains each day, my lung capacity will be affected. At higher altitudes, there is a serious risk of altitude sickness. As the air gets increasingly thinner in the hypoxic environment, my body will respond to less oxygen available with each breath I take. There will be less oxygen running through my circulatory system, meaning less oxygen reaches my muscles. The highest altitude I will climb to is approximately 5600m. My uncle shall be in my thoughts throughout this trek.

I shall nevertheless soldier on... put one foot forward, one step at a time, take one breath at a time.

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Thank you so much for your generous and kind support!

With much love and gratitude,

Namaste

Joyce xoxo