The Hardest Climb, for the Greatest Men

On 11 August 2025, at 15:32 local time, I reached the summit of K2 — the world’s second-highest and one of its most unforgiving mountains. Every step of that climb was for my dad, Thomas Angus Mack MBE (Royal Air Force), and my grampa, Reuben Marshall Rogers (Royal Corps of Signals).

They were the two most important men in my life — strong, kind, and full of character. Losing them both within a few months of each other was devastating, but what brought me comfort was knowing how well they were cared for at Erskine Bishopton Home.

Erskine wasn’t just a place of care. It felt like family. My dad came to Erskine after a stroke left him needing 24-hour nursing, while my grampa — still sharp in his 90s but legally blind — lived just downstairs in an assisted living apartment. During Covid, I was allowed 45 minutes a day with Dad. Afterwards, I’d go to Grampa, who’d be waiting with an ice cream — just like when I was little — and one of his make-everything-better hugs. Even as he grew frail, he still found ways to look after me.

When I lost them both, I didn’t know what to do with that grief. The mountains became my way of processing it — one step, one climb, one summit at a time. Standing on top of K2 was my way of saying they’re still with me, always.

I want to give something back to Erskine, so other families can feel the same care and compassion that we did. Every donation helps Erskine Veterans Charity continue their incredible work supporting veterans and their loved ones at the most difficult times of their lives.

If you can, please donate in memory of two remarkable men — and in support of a charity that truly changes lives.

Thank you

Kirsty ❤️