Hell on the Hills - the journey to help others recover.

Help Us Support Our Heroes: Hell on the Hills!

October 4th 2024

Hello, my name is Stu Wright, and I am the founder of Operation Cairngorms, a non-profit organisation based in the North East of Scotland.

Since the inception of Op Cairngorms, we have faced intricate struggles in obtaining funding from outside agencies. Despite these challenges, we have self-funded our initiatives from the outset, driven by our unwavering belief in the importance of our mission. This fundraising push is crucial for us to continue our support for the military community.

As a veteran and advocate for our military community, I have dedicated the last three years to providing outdoor-based workshops for serving and retired members of the armed forces and their families. These courses help our armed forces community and their loved ones navigate the unique challenges they face, fostering resilience, mental well-being, and a sense of belonging.

However, all this comes at a cost, none of which are passed on to the attendees. We are committed to ensuring financial burdens do not prevent access to these potentially lifesaving opportunities.

Our work has also been recognised and we recently achieved a Bronze award at the Veterans Awards Scotland.

The Challenge

Our team will attempt to complete the West Highland Way, 96 miles, and then to top it off by summiting Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain non-stop. We hope to complete this within 36 hours from start to finish.

The Route

The Team

Stu Wright – One of the founders of Operation Cairngorms and lead instructor most attendees will spend their time with. Stu served in the Royal Dragoon Guards for 12 years and now runs OpCG and provides other outdoor opportunities that support adults and children through outdoor-based practices and experiences.

Jay Forbes – Jay is still serving and has served in many Gunner and Joint Service Regiments. After taking the role of Regimental Sergeant Major of 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, Jay was diagnosed with C-PTSD. Earlier this year, he attended an Op Cairngorms recalibration course which helped him put things into perspective and clear some of the fog. Jay is doing this challenge for the military community and quotes: “Mental health doesn’t care what rank you hold or the appointment you are charged with. If you and the chain of command don’t take time to sharpen the axe, things may get a little rough. The team needs you, so make sure you take the time to look after yourself.”

Carl Davis – Still serving in the Ranger Regiment, Carl has spent over a decade within the military. Like so many others, his mental health has taken a toll. Not wanting to seek help, it became more difficult to see a way out. With help and advice from those close to him, he came forward and started his recovery journey, this included time at Op Cairngorms. Carl quotes: “This challenge will bring out the best and worst of myself, which coincides with going through mental health struggles and the recovery stages.”

The Goal

Our goal is to raise £20,000, which will directly fund our short courses program and some operational costs for the next 24 months. It will also provide additional funds we can then use to match-fund and increase to purchase additional resources and equipment to continue the development of this organisation.

At Operation Cairngorms, we believe in the power of community and the strength of support. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact.

Please join us in this mission. Your donation will not only help us reach our goal but also send a powerful message of gratitude and support to those who have served. Follow our journey, share our story, and stand with us as we conquer the West Highland Way and Ben Nevis.

Thank you for your support and generosity.

Warm regards,

Stuart Wright

Founder, Operation Cairngorms

https://www.opcairngorms.org