Everest in the lake - keeping cancer real

Cancer research has been the centre of my fundraising for over 17-years starting when we tragically lost my cousin Tracie at just 32 years of age. I have since witnessed many families and friends touched by this disease with most recovering aided by the amazing treatment available but equally and sadly, we have lost loved ones too. I have striven to push myself to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. To find challenges that are real challenges, from running marathons to climbing mountains in Africa, trekking trails in South America, sky diving and cycling across France with the odd ice-bath challenge thrown-in during Lockdown. Together, we have raised a whopping £125,000. On 6th November, this year I will be attempting the Everest in the Lakes Challenge. The goal is simple, together with my friend Jo we will climb the height of Everest, the world’s highest peak whilst raising money for Cancer Research UK. This is a physically demanding event is taking place in the beautiful Lake District. We will be pushed to our limits to reach half the height of Everest over two days. That is 14,514 feet each of elevation gain, although we will be hiking the full height including the descent! This is estimated to take up to 14-hours a day, or however long it takes to finish each day’s stage. All charities have been hit hard during COVID with scheduled events cancelled and fundraising halted. Cancer has not stopped during COVID, and research needs to continue to find the best treatments for our family & friends. My dear school chum Sharon is one of these friends who was diagnosed with breast cancer during Covid. She has vowed to "keep it real" by uploading regular vlogs about her treatment, fellow cancer patients and complete strangers to help bring awareness and comfort to those on the same journey. Her inspirational, no-hole’s barred vlogs are powerful and moving, with a large dollop of humour that inspired me to channel her energy, positivity, and can-do attitude. This challenge is for Sharon in the hope that her fabulously infectious energy aids my journey of scaling the height of Everest with all monies raised donated to breast cancer research. My aim is to raise £1,000 so please give what you can and donate to my page today and help bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. Thank you, Rachel xx