Thank you for visiting this fundraising page.

Well, I made it to Everest Base Camp on Sunday 11th May 2008. The trek was indeed gruelling and a challenge, to say the least.

Over the 17 day period we slept in tents, taking in some 110 miles on foot and reaching over 5,500m (19,000+ ft) above sea level at Everest Base Camp. The air at this altitude is "thin" - that is the oxygen content level is around half what we experience here in the UK.

The weather overall was perfect, ranging from chilly during the day to well below freezing at night. One day of rain and one day of snow, not bad ! Supported by local sherpa guides we had few home comforts and were at the mercy of the elements on the highest mountain range on earth.

We chose to support Meningitis UK in memory of Mike Reilly, our friend  and a sporting giant who tragically passed away just a few days before Christmas whilst home from Uni, from Meningitis.

Mike was aged just 19 and was a sporting genius in football, cricket, basketball, hockey and latterly rugby, playing at County level in whatever he put his great hands to. Not only was he great at all sports, he was also the model sportsman - my son Joe, his sporting sidekick since reception class will miss his beaming smile and crushing hugs.

We had aimed to raise £2,650 via this weblink, but considering the effort I now want to raise much more.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to donate: Meningitis UK will receive your money electronically and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in Gift Aid will be added to your donation at no cost to you.

Please donate generously and many thanks for your support.

Mick Scannell