Story
<p>On Weds 22nd February 2012, at 9-45am, Max and Stewart reached the summit of Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain in the world, at a height of 5895 metres. This trip was made possible by the wonderful generosity of Joanne White of Global Plantations Ltd., whose favourite charity is the Born Free Foundation. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Every year, approximately 30,000 people attempt to climb Kilimanjaro, and 55% do not reach the summit. it is a hard test of stamina, endurance and physical and mental strength.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This was Max's second attempt to climb Kili - severe altitude sickness and dehydration forced her to take an emergency descent in October 2008, but she had "unfinished business" on the mountain and was determined to succeed this time! Summit night was the hardest physical challenge we have experienced. It was snowing for most of the ascent, which began at midnight, lit only by our head torches. We saw a wonderful sunrise before we reached the summit, and experienced a fantastic sense of exhilaration, combined with extreme tiredness, as we reached Uhuru peak. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>We are very grateful to all those who have donated so far. We have also been supported by numerous lovely people who ensured that we were well fed on the mountain with raw snacks, onion bread, and wheatgrass juice. We both trained very hard for our climb and are delighted to have summited. For more information about the type of training we were doing, please read Max's training blog <a title="Blog" href="http://maxtuck.wordpress.com/">here.</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thanks for taking the time to visit this JustGiving page.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Please help us to exceed our target for this fantastic charity.</p>