A team of CNC officers from Heysham have successfully scaled Snowdon carrying a stretcher laden with weights totalling 127kg (20 stone).
Cloud cover was dense, but spirits were high as the team set off on the morning of Tuesday 30 September. The aim of the weighted climb was to recognise the burden carried by people affected by a cancer diagnosis. One in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime, and many of the Snowdon Challengers are or have supported someone living with cancer.
Despite challenging weather conditions, the officers reached the summit in under four hours and have so far raised over £1900 for Cancer Research UK.
The climb was organised by PC Ady Bebb, who is no stranger to charity challenges. He previously completed the London Marathon dressed as a car, raising money for a cancer charity and achieving a Guinness World Record in the process.
Speaking to us the morning after the Snowdon Challenge, Ady said: “My body is in bits today, and I’m sure everyone else is suffering. I was slightly concerned I’d set the expectations too high, more so when the weather changed and you could see everyone was mentally and physically drained.”
“The last mile was gruesome, but everyone gave it all their grit and determination. Every single person had to pull their weight; the teamwork was epic. I’m proud of what they’ve achieved, and so should they be.”
“At the start, I asked them to put themselves in somebody else’s shoes when things get tough, remind yourself why you’re doing this! and where you would rather be?!...”
“I don’t think anything can replicate the stress and emotion that cancer burdens families with. Physically, though, this was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and I’m sure the others would agree. Despite this, those 7 hours of pain were worth it knowing all the money raised will go on to support Cancer Research UK in everything they do, from helping people spot cancer early to providing support and treatment to those who need it.”
There is still time to add to the total raised by the team and you can make a donation here.