Grandad Colin climbs a mountain for Ezme-Rae

Colin is Grandad to heart warrior Ezmé-Rae who had open heart surgery at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit (LCHU) three years ago.

Colin wanted to give back in thanks for the amazing support his son and family received whilst in hospital so chose to do something big and climb a mountain to raise money for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund!

Colin says that because of the wonderful Mr Giuseppe Pelella and team at LCHU, he gets his Saturday morning breakfasts with his beautiful granddaughter.

Colin said:

“We took on Mount Toubkal which is the tallest peak in North Africa. But this was about so much more than just reaching the summit. From the early start in Marrakech and the gruelling push to base camp, to setting off at 3:00am in the pitch black to catch the sunrise at the top. You definitely question your sanity on these mountains, but moments like that make it all worth it.

“The biggest victory though is why we did this. We took on this challenge for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund and thanks to the unbelievable generosity from everyone back in my local village of Conisbrough and beyond, together we’ve raised an incredible £7,230!️

“A special thank you to Conner Kelsall who supported me with social media and spreading awareness of the challenge, and a massive thank you to every single person who donated and supported the cause. And to Marc, Derick, Kev Roberts, and James Lodge – I wouldn’t want to climb mountains with anyone else. We did it!”

Once they were back in the UK, Colin and his trekking team held a celebration event for friends and family to announce the incredible total raised for CHSF! The event was held in The White Lady in Conisbrough, where Colin enjoys his breakfasts with Ezme-Mae.

Community & Events Fundraiser Lauren went along to the event say a big thank you for all their amazing fundraising.

Lauren said:

“It’s been a pleasure to get to know Colin and see his determination get him through to complete this challenge! He has an amazing support-system around him with family, friends and locals who were fantastic in helping him smash his original fundraising target. It was a pleasure to attend his celebration evening and present him with his cheque.”