Dave Rees Journey to Summit of Pen Y Fan 13th September 2025

'My Journey to the Summit of Pen y Fan'

Hi I'm Dave

As a former member of HM Forces, I've faced my share of challenges. But nothing could have prepared me for the journey I've been on since 2018. That's when I was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer, which led to a life-changing 9-hour operation and the removal of a significant portion of my stomach.

The road to recovery was long and arduous, with 12 weeks of chemotherapy, a pulmonary embolism, and sepsis. This left me with permanent lung damage and a diagnosis of COPD (Emphysema). Despite these setbacks, I remained determined to make the most of the time I had left.

In 2023, I celebrated my 60th birthday, but it was bittersweet. I knew my time was limited. I was struggling to come to terms with my mortality. However, I was determined to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy.

That's when I received the call that would change my life forever – I was eligible for a double lung transplant. The surgery was a success ! I'm now on the road to recovery. Thanks to the incredible team at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the selfless donation of a stranger.

Throughout my journey, I've been supported by the amazing team at the Fisher House, who provided a safe haven for my family during my treatment. Their kindness, compassion, and generosity inspired me to give back and make a difference in the lives of others.

That's why I've decided to tackle the challenge of walking up Pen y Fan on 13th September 2025, one of the highest peaks in the UK. I'm doing this to raise funds for the Fisher House and The Queen Elizabeth Heart and Lung Transplant unit and to honor the donor and their family who gave me a second chance at life.

I'm reaching out to ask for your support in this endeavor. Your sponsorship would mean the world to me and would help make a tangible difference in the lives of others who are facing similar challenges.

Thank You for taking the time to read about journey and the one's that are yet to come !

Want to join me in making a difference? I'm raising money to benefit Fisher House UK, and any donation will help make an impact. Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me.

More information about Fisher House UK: Fisher House UK runs a home away from home for military patients and their families on the site of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham