In June 2023, we will be embarking on our challenge to climb the world famous Mount Kilimanjaro and stand atop 'The Roof of Africa'!

This dormant volcano is the highest free-standing mountain in the world and one of the 'seven summits'. It will take us to the dizzying elevation of 5985m following an 8 day hike along the Lemosho Route. The altitude will be challenging both physically and mentally and whilst we have trekked to over 4000m previously, we have no idea whether Altitude sickness will strike. We are both keeping our fingers crossed and training as best we can for a successful summit.

Erica in particular is more worried about 8 nights in a tent, the lack of hair washing facilities and a proper toilet than the hiking!

This challenge, however, is nothing compared to the complete devastation that Erica's niece (Ethan's cousin), Aimee, & her husband, Mark, are going through right now. In November, they tragically and totally unexpectedly lost their baby boy, Freddie, shortly after his 1st birthday and following what they believed was simply a common chest infection. Freddie was a strong, healthy little boy who was totally thriving - he had just taken his first steps and hitting all his wonderful developmental milestones. As you can imagine, this has completely turned their world upside down and they are now facing a full inquest into his death.

Freddie filled everybody's life with pure joy & the brightest smile. He was a bundle of happiness; every single person that met him came away grinning.

Erica said from the first moment she held him that he had something 'extra special' that she couldn't quite put her finger on. At his Mummy and Daddy's wedding last July, Freddie quite literally stole the show (sorry Aimee!) as he travelled down the aisle in a remote controlled convertible Mercedes! Aimee and Mark had the BEST day with their adored little boy there to share it with.

But then everything went wrong for Aimee & Mark. In Aimee's own words they have had to experience every parent's worst fear when Freddie passed away.

Aimee & Mark have since learned that they have become members of a club that no one wants to be in, but sadly it is a very highly populated club. There are so many parents who have to suffer this horrendous experience, and Aimee & Mark want to do everything they can to help fellow parents who experience this. They know only too well the challenges of simply negotiating each day and the inability to feel like they will ever come to terms with it.

In Freddie's memory, they are planning to launch 'Freddie's Friends' charity. Whilst in its early stages, they wish to create this legacy for him, as Freddie truly was a friend to every person he met. They aim to support other bereaved parents & carers following the loss of a child.

Thank you for taking the time to read about Freddie's story. Erica and Ethan would be really grateful if you could donate towards this cause that is so close to their hearts. It will help spur them on through every challenging mile x