Below is the original cover note i made for this double trip, planned for June 2020, before the lovely COVID-19 got in the way. In the end the Mont Blanc trip was rescheduled June 2021. The Gran Paradiso trip did take place in 2020, but in September. We had absolutely fantastic weather, and everybody on the trip reached the summit. Photo to follow in my updates down the page.  

i am hoping to add a bit more to the fundraising achieved so far (assuming i can reopen this page ok). Thanks very much to those who have already contributed... 

I cant wait to have a crack at MB this June. COVID permitting......

Original:

 In June of this year, I will be joining former professional rugby player, Ed Jackson in the Alps for two mountain climbs to raise funds for Restart.

Ed Jackson's professional rugby career spanned ten year. He played for Bath, Wasps, London Welsh and the Gwent Dragons.

Three years ago, aged 28, Ed endured a horrific spinal injury that not only forced him to retire from the professional game but left him virtually paralysed from the neck down. Since then, he has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation and had defied the odds after being told he may never walk again. Not only has Ed got back on his feet but he has turned his sights to the mountains; conquering peaks to raise awareness of spinal cord injuries and fundraise for charities that have helped including Restart.

Restart supported Ed through his recovery from day one by helping to fund full-time physiotherapy treatment.

I have already completed two Alpine treks alongside Ed and I'm looking forward to this June, when we will attempt to reach the top of Gran Paradiso followed by Mont Blanc, all in aid of Restart.

Restart is the official charity of the Rugby Players Association and is dedicated to supporting over 1,200 current and former professional players suffering from serious injury, illness or hardship. Players give everything for club and country but their lives can change in an instant.

Should the worst happen, Restart is there to provide financial, practical and emotional support, helping with the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation and career transition. The charity also provides a 24/7 telephone helpline and confidential counselling service for players and their families during their darkest times. 

To find out more about the vital work that Restart do to support players, watch their charity video and hear from players like Ed about the importance of Restart's support. 

Watch Restart's charity video: 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=UY4XXj8pU-Q