Climbing for a cause: The Institute of Cancer Research UK.

The battle against cancer is seemingly endless—one in two of us will develop some form of cancer in our lifetimes, and everyone will be affected in some way. To contribute to the fight, we are taking on the incredible challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, raising funds for the Institute of Cancer Research UK. By dedicating this climb to our loved ones affected by cancer, we aim to support vital research and inspire hope for a future with fewer lives impacted by this disease.

In his first year at Oxford University, Bear’s father, Richard, was diagnosed with malignant metastases from an unknown primary. He underwent chemotherapy, surgery and radical radiotherapy. His prognosis was 50:50. Richard continues to have checkups at The Royal Marsden Hospital every two years. To this day, the site of the origin of his cancer remains unknown. Having recently started university, his goals and ambitions, including his passion for climbing, were abruptly taken away as he faced the severity and uncertainty of the disease. While Bear wasn’t yet born at the time, having turned 19 this August, he can only imagine how terrifying it must have been for his father—a young, active, and sporty individual—to face a diagnosis that not only disrupted his life but nearly ended it. After an eye-opening discussion with Emerson and Memo about their experiences with cancer, Bear dedicates this climb to an integral part of his father’s life: climbing. Now 19/20, the same age at which his father nearly lost his life, Bear sees this climb as a way to reflect on how cancer affects people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, physicalities, and lifestyles. Fortunately, his father made a full recovery and continues to climb today despite the lingering effects of chemo and radiotherapy. Bear also honours his father’s dream of climbing Kilimanjaro, an aspiration he has carried for years.

Nathalie, Emerson’s mother, was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer in late April 2024, an event that profoundly shook her family and friends. The months that followed were marked by sadness, physical and mental strain, and overwhelming uncertainty. Thankfully, after surgery, Nathalie was declared cancer-free, a testament to the remarkable work of the NHS and her unyielding spirit. Now undergoing intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy to ensure the cancer does not return, Nathalie continues to inspire those around her with her courage, strength, and determination. Emerson dedicates this climb to his mother, standing by her in solidarity and demonstrating that hope and perseverance prevail even in the hardest moments.

In April 2024, Theo, Maxime’s best friend, was diagnosed with a rare form of leukaemia while on a ski season in Japan during his gap year. The diagnosis abruptly halted Theo’s life, preventing him from starting his hard-earned place at UCL in September 2024. Maxime dedicates this climb to Theo, reflecting on how cancer can disrupt the lives of anyone, regardless of age or character. At a time in life meant for exploration and growth, Maxime hopes to highlight how cancer can profoundly impact young people during their most formative years, emphasising the life-altering effects of this devastating disease.

Two of Memo's close family members have endured the ever-lasting challenges of cancer. Inspired by their resilience, Memo sees the fight against cancer as similar to the challenging climb of Mount Kilimanjaro—both requiring extraordinary physical and mental resilience. By dedicating his climb to his relatives, Memo seeks to honour their struggles, reflect on their hardships, and raise critical funds to support cancer research.

Information:

- Date: 18th June- 27th June

- Route: Machame

Day 1: Machame gate- Machame camp ( Rainforest zone)

Altitude: 1,800- 2,800

Hiking distance 11 km

Hiking duration 6 hours

Day 2: Machame camp- Shira camp ( Moorland zone)

Altitude: 2,800- 3,600

Hiking distance 8 km

Hiking duration 6 hours

Day 3: Shira camp- Barranco camp ( Alpine desert)

Altitude: 3,600- 3,940

Hiking distance: 11km

Hiking duration: 8 hours

Day 4: Barranco camp- Barafu camp (Arctic zone)

Altitude: 3,940- 4,550

Hiking distance: 13 km

Hiking duration: 7 hours

Day 5 ( Summit day): Barafu camp- Summit- Mweka camp

Altitude: 4,550- 5,895- 3,100

Hiking distance: 17 km

Hiking duration: 15+ hours

Day 6: Mweka camp- Moshi ( Rainforest zone)

Altitude: 3,100- 1,800

Hiking distance: 10 km

Hiking duration: 5 hours