Disturbingly, the number of troops that suffer from conditions such as PTSD has nearly doubled in the past ten years. Even more distressing is that suicide is rife within the Veterans community.

Suicide is the leading cause of death facing our troops, surpassing being killed in active combat.

It is therfore my objective to scale two of the world’s most technically challenging peaks in order to raise awareness for the mental health of British Veterans as well as much needed funds for these charities. Ex service personnel should have the sufficient resources available to them as if they were still in service. This must change.

Many people find it hard to understand what it is about a mountain that draws men and women to risk their lives on her freezing icy faces – all for a chance of that single solitary moment on the top. It can be hard to explain. But I also relate to the quote that says: ‘If you have to ask you will never understand’

‘Success is the ability to go from one failure to another, with no loss of enthusiasm’ Winston Churchill.

I am starting my journey from scratch, from writing this, to then one day (God willing, May 2019) to reach the summit of the highest peak on earth - Mount Everest.

Prior to an attempt to Summit Mount Everest, mountaineering experience is required on Aconcagua which is in South America, Argentina. It is aclaimed to be one of the seven summits and has been nick named the ‘mountain of death’ even at 5000 metres temperatures can hit lows of -20. The Aconcagua expedition will be attempted December 2018, immediately followed by the Mt Everest expedition in April 2019.

This is no easy undertaking and will require months of physical and technical preparation, but is essential before an Everest summit is even attempted.

But why Everest? Mt Everest is the pinacle of mountaineering and human endurance, its famous the world over for its majestic beauty and awe-inspiring sights. It fascinates me, legends have been formed and tales of heroism seep from its core. To walk in their footsteps would be unimaginable.

I believe that ambitious goals are the key to a healthy mind, life has taught me to be very cautious of a man with a dream, especially a man who has teetered on the edge of life. It gives a fire and recklessness inside that is hard to quantify. It can also make them fun to be around. Bear Grylls

People climb mountains for a variety of different reasons, for myself the transition into civilian life has been extremely tough, extreme highs and cataclysmic lows. The problem is apparent for many service leavers and still there is no government led initiatives to help with the transition into civilian life. There are many amazing charities out there that help ex military personnel when they need it the most. These charities need financial support.

‘’When I'm at home I just got this big, black cloud following me... you know, like a depression? But when I'm out here on a mountain, any mountain..It's just like it's a cure. I feel like I'm reborn’’ Beck Weathers.

Following aspirations for a summit attempt I hope to document my experience, my struggles and my hardships and gain coverage for other veterans who can relate to my journey.

Thank you to those who have taken the time out to donate already and to those who have given me guidance and support it’s amazing!

Please email me directly on sam_d07@hotmail.co.uk for the expedition business sponsorship proposal.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and making this dream one day become a reality.

Sam