Some of you may have been following the Strathcarron 2016 High Atlas Mountain Challenge through our Social Media. This was the first overseas challenge for the Hospice and we are delighted to say every single one of our trekkers is safely back home.
Of course, people take these challenges on to support their nominated charity and we have been overwhelmed by our Trekkers’ fundraising efforts; they have exceeded their targets and donated over £30,000 towards the running costs of the hospice and those terminally ill people we care for. All of us at the Hospice are incredibly proud of their achievement whilst being incredibly grateful for the financial support.
To quote one of our group on their return, “It’s called a challenge for a reason, it was tough, much tougher than any of us had imagined but on reaching the summit it was amazing and would I change it for the world – never!”
The group averaged over 30,000 steps each and every day in extreme weather conditions – the heat meant they were up and away from camp each day at between 3am and 6am. Of course, this means trekking in the dark with only a head torch for light and the terrain under-foot was extremely challenging with rocks and rubble and sometimes a sheer drop on one side. Camp would be set up on arrival but don’t think for a minute this included home-comforts (unless you consider a hole in the ground and baby wipes as your choice of bathroom!). The two Moroccan guides were a wonderful addition to our group with their knowledge of the mountain range together with their motivation to keep everyone on the move during difficult times, particularly if there was a fall or sickness due to the high altitude.
We are sure you will join everyone at Strathcarron in being grateful for their safe return and wonderful support for your local hospice. If you have been inspired to take on your own challenge then please contact fundraising@strathcarronhospice.net