*******9 PEAK CHALLENGE********

Over 10 years ago I was diagnosed with Hydrocephalus. ‘Hydrocephalus’ is a condition in which there is a build-up of excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the chambers of the brain, it compresses the surrounding tissue and raises the pressure inside the skull. After this diagnosis, I had a device inserted into my brain which controlled the flow of fluid.

However, in October 2020 this device failed and I was rushed into Hospital with a build-up of pressure in the brain which caused me to feel extremely unwell. I had to be transferred from our local hospital in Chester to a specialist Neuro facility the Walton in Liverpool.

Here, they relieved the pressure by performing emergency surgery called External ventricular drain (EVD). This was only a temporary measure, they then performed the same surgery I had 10 years ago an Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV), which creates an opening in the third ventricle for the fluid to flow through. I was discharged and felt great, even started doing small 5K runs but the closer we got to Christmas the more unwell I was feeling with similar symptoms of headaches, nausea and blurred visions re-occurring. I was re-admitted into the Walton on Boxing Day and was informed unfortunately the ETV had been unsuccessful, and the hydrocephalus returned. The neurosurgeons decided to insert a shunt device, this is a tube inserted into the brain and stomach which diverts fluid away from the brain into the stomach to get re-absorbed into the bloodstream. After this surgery I was again discharged but recovery was longer and slower, I never fully felt recovered. In February 2021 I was re-admitted to the Walton as the shunt device was only working for one side of the brain and the decision was taken that I should have two devices. That was 6 months ago and I am now thankful to report that I am feeling well and my hydrocephalus is under control.

It is safe to say that the last 9 months there have been some challenging times especially with the emergence of COVID19. This made my hospital admissions even more difficult with family and friends unable to visit. However, the service I had from all the nurses and doctors at the Walton Hospital during this difficult time was impeccable.

From consultations, scans, quick diagnosis, operations and many many check-ups, I owe this hospital everything as things could have been a lot different. Therefore, I feel the least I can do is to raise money for the hospital and ward to show my appreciation for my amazing consultation team, who even now are always there for me if I have any concerns.

I have therefore decided to organise a charity event with half the money raised going towards the Walton Hydrocephalus department and the other 50% to Mark Thompson for his ongoing treatment in Germany. In August 2018 Mark was given the bad news that he had a grade 3 Cancerous Brain Tumour. A husband and father to 2 beautiful children Mark was devastated but being young and fit he knew he was going to fight it head on and nothing was going to stop him. Mark spent time researching his diagnosis and got in touch with a consultant in London who gave him hope of an alternative treatment ‘Immunotherapy’ which is only available in Germany. Mark is not supported by the UK government and constantly needs to raise money himself to fund his travel and treatment. So far Mark is happy to report that he is doing well but requires continued scans and treatments in Germany. This is the reason why I personally would like to contribute half of the money I raise to help and support Mark who I have known from a very young age and consider him part of my family.

The Challenge

I will attempt to complete the 3 Welsh Peaks (Snowdon, Cadair Idris & Pen Y fan) 3 times in 3 days. 3/3/3! Day one I will start the base of Snowdon and climb to the summit no later than 8AM. I will then travel to Cadair Idris, followed by completing Pen Y fan, which will finish off day 1. I will get some much-needed rest and on day 2 I will start by scaling Pen Y fan, followed by Cadair Idris, making my way back up to Snowdon. Day 3 will be the final day of the challenge where I will climb all three mountains again in the same order as Day 1; Snowdon, Cadair Idris and finish after completing Pen Y fan. I will then raise a beer or 2 to celebrate the completion of this challenge.

This is not only going to be a physical challenge but a mental one as well. The event will take place in May 2022 to ensure I have enough sunlight to successfully complete the challenge. I would really appreciate the support in this challenge both in helping me to raise £2000 for these two important causes which are close to my heart, but also for moral support in completing the challenge and company on any of the days and mountains to help get me through would be greatly appreciated. If you would like to join me for any part of the event please let me know by dropping an email to douglas.johnson1987@gmail.com