“Dads, Daughters, and a Few Thousand Steps for a Good Cause.”

When my daughter announced she wanted to climb Everest, I thought a warm-up climb might be in order. Now, with my friend Jason and our daughters, we’re preparing to take on Kilimanjaro for the Colonel’s Fund – a family adventure that’s guaranteed to come with a few ups and downs. I’ve tackled some endurance challenges in the past, including 100 half-marathons in 100 days and a 700-mile canoe trip down the Yukon with Jason (yes, using only our arms), but this climb will bring a whole new set of tests. Jason will be summiting Kilimanjaro on two prosthetic legs, and with our daughters alongside us, we’ll need every bit of energy, humour, and resilience we can muster.

Why We’re Climbing

The Colonel’s Fund holds a special place in our lives. As a volunteer and beneficiary, we’ve seen the difference their work makes first-hand. When my family needed support after the loss of my brother, who was killed in action in Afghanistan, the Colonel’s Fund were key players in providing counselling, stability, and a community. They’ve also helped me personally to get back into fitness after injury, supplying equipment, guidance, and the occasional well-timed nudge. Now, it’s a privilege to give back by climbing for them, alongside my daughter and friends, knowing that every step we take will help support a cause that’s made such an impact on our lives.

Meet the Team

Our team of four includes two dads and two daughters. My daughter Penelope is a mini-me – wise beyond her years, yet still full of energy (and conversation!). We’ll be relying on her spirit to keep us all going as we make our way up. And Jason, who’ll be tackling the mountain on two prosthetic legs, is no stranger to overcoming physical obstacles – though even he admits Kilimanjaro will present some new challenges. Jason's step-daughter Avery, possibly the calmest character in the team will let Jason know when he needs a rest as he can be a little stubborn ;)

About the Climb

Kilimanjaro’s 19,341 feet will be a test of endurance for all of us, but especially for Jason, who’s doing it on two prosthetic legs. Together, we’ve tackled challenges before, and having our daughters by our side will make this one even more enlightening (and keep us humble, no doubt). We will be trekking the 8-day Rongai Route with a daytime summit in February 2025.

Follow Our Journey

We’d love you to follow along with us as we train, prepare, and finally take on this trek of a lifetime! Keep an eye on our updates via the hashtag #DadsandDaughtersTrek. If our story inspires you, please consider donating to the Colonel’s Fund to help us reach our target. Your support helps them continue their vital work with wounded Grenadier Guards and their families – one mountain (or half-marathon) at a time.

Thanks for reading and cheering us on!