A Cumbrian man plans to climb a single fell 1,000 times by September to support Eden Valley Hospice.
Steve Hartley, 69, who lives near Caldbeck, began his challenge in 2013, aiming to climb the 1,500ft Carrock fell 100 times a year – equivalent to climbing Everest every year.
He said: “As time has gone on I realised that I could achieve the 1,000 ascents this year and have decided to mark the achievement by raising funds for the hospice.
“I am retired from paid work and am a full-time carer for my wife Jan who has severe Multiple Sclerosis and is now, largely, bed bound.
“We used to be keen hill walkers in the past until MS took away her physical abilities. Given my caring role, going out for all-day climbing adventures has become impractical and Carrock Fell is both a good climb, a work out, and can be done without disrupting her care for too long.
“Over the years Eden Valley Hospice has provided great support to Jan through their daycare facilities for people with life-limiting diseases. They have also provided
respite breaks from time to time, giving me the opportunity to have short periods away from home.
“The hospice provides much more than palliative care which is the role that most people perceive. It also provides physical and emotional support to family
members impacted by life-limiting conditions.
“COVID-19 has put paid to several of its functions and has also impacted on its ability to raise funds for it’s vital activities. I saw achieving my goal as an opportunity to repay the hospice in some modest way.
“I plan to complete my challenge by September this year barring injury or illness, by which time I hope to walk up some different mountain!”
To donate to Steve’s appeal, visit www.justgiving.com/Steve-Hartley-Carrock-Challenge
