Almost a year ago, a very good friend invited me to go along on a real adventure – climbing Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak (at almost 6000 m or 20,000 ft) and the world’s highest freestanding mountain. You just can’t say no to Addie, so on September 22^nd, Addie, Kate and I will be on a plane heading for Tanzania for a seven day climb up the Machame route all the way to the summit.

I’ve never done anything like this before, so I decided to dedicate this effort to something close to my heart. It’s very simple, really: I owe a debt and it’s time to repay it.

A little over ten years ago, my son went through a successful bone marrow transplant (BMT) for his life threatening genetic immune system disorder, CGD. We received lots of help during this time – from his anonymous donor to the support and prayers of our family and friends. But we could not have done it without the support, advice and help of our dedicated CGD nurse. That nurse, fully funded by the CGD Society, made all the difference.

CGD is a rare, life threatening and life limiting disorder. Children are born with no effective defence against bacterial and fungal infections, and there is still no definitive cure other than BMT. There is so much more research needed, and many more families to help.

I really believe in this – I am a trustee. I also feel incredibly grateful that the CGD Society exists.

Thanks for helping reach my goal!!