"At Stella Point, we see the sunrise. It is truly spectacular as the sun rises from behind Mawenzi, and I am lost for words. I am also partially lost for breath, and I have to go slowly as I make my way past the large glacier on the south face of Kili and on up the long, but actually quite gentle slope, to the summit ..... and at 6:45 I make it!

 

I HAVE CLIMBED KILIMANJARO!!!!!!! "

Hi! I’m Mark Gibbons:

I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro from the 1st - 10th October 2010 with the goal of raising a minimum of £2500 pounds for the St. Elizabeth's Hospice in Ipswich in memory of my Mother, Shirley Gibbons who passed away at the Hospice on the 10th October 2009.

Can I ask you to sponsor me?

Having a loved one suffer from terminal illness is an incredibly difficult and emotional experience for both the patient and the rest of their family. At all times last year, I was incredibly touched by the sheer professionalism and personal empathy that all the staff at the Hospice demonstrated in caring for my Mum, and all our family. Without the Hospice, a dreadfully demanding and emotional experience would have been much harder to cope with.  With my Mum’s passing, I was immediately motivated to contribute something back for the care and support that we received during those very difficult times, and demonstrate my thanks in a practical and concrete way.

During her life, my Mum was very aware of the needs for others and actively contributed to many social and charitable causes to help less advantaged people particularly in Suffolk than herself. In climbing Kilimanjaro, I'll be looking to raise funds to ensure that the St. Elizabeth's Hospice can continue with their marvellous work and help other patients and families by providing the palliative care that patients need to cope with their terminal illness.

So please can I ask you to make a donation now to support me and the Hospice via my JustGiving website at

http://www.justgiving.com/MARK-GIBBONS-Kilimanjaro-Climb-for-StElizabethHospice

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Once you donate, JustGiving send your money directly to the Hospice 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.

Very many thanks for your donation. It is much appreciated!

Mark Gibbons.