On December 9th, I set off for Argentina to tackle Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the western hemisphere at 6,962 metres (22,841 feet) to raise funds for cancer research. This is my third year of raising money for cancer, and as most of you know my projects are all in memory of my father.

 

This time it's a biggie - it'll be the highest peak I've ever attempted and will take two and a half weeks of carrying 45-pound backpacks. After a few days at Base Camp (Plaza de Mulas, 4,370m) the real work begins: we'll be climbing to Camp I (4,910m), Camp II (5,380m), Camp III (5,870m) and on to the summit in a space of only five days. If all goes well we'll summit on December 23rd and be back in Mendoza for Christmas.

 

This is my second fundraising project this year so the target isn't high. It would be wonderful if you are happy to donate, and words of encouragement on my Facebook page (or a beer post-climb) are equally welcome! 

 

In the meantime, I'm working through a special training programme which involves eating as much as possible and "fat-loading" in the final week before leaving (as well as doing some running and weights). Guess which part is more fun!

 

Thank you for your support. Your donation will go to a cause very close to my heart and will benefit many people living with cancer.

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