Summit success for Rowcroft’s Mount Kilimanjaro team

A team of 31 determined Rowcroft Hospice supporters from across South Devon has reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, taking on Africa’s highest mountain to raise vital funds for the hospice.

Team Rowcroft has spent 7 days trekking the Machame Route in Tanzania, tackling challenging terrain and high altitudes as they made their way towards Uhuru Peak – the highest point at 5,895 metres above sea level.

After months of training and fundraising, the team reached the summit at 6am BST on Thursday 10 September, achieving an incredible feat while raising money to support Rowcroft’s vital hospice care for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Together, the climbers have raised an incredible £113,000 for Rowcroft so far.

The youngest member of the team was 15-year-old Andrew Morgan from Babbacombe, who took on the challenge alongside his mum Louise and his dad Dan.

Andrew said: “Trekking Kilimanjaro with the Rowcroft team was very cool! I made loads of friends with our Tanzanian support crew and with my Rowcroft teammates. We supported each other through the good times and when we were feeling rough with the altitude. I know Nanny would be so proud. An adventure I will never forget!”

Molly Billingsley, Rowcroft Community and Challenges Fundraiser, said: “We’re delighted to see the team reach the summit after all the hard work they’ve put in. It’s an incredible achievement, and we’re so grateful to each and every one of them for taking on this challenge and raising funds for Rowcroft.”

The team is now making its way back home, where they will have a chance to rest, recover and celebrate their incredible achievement.

Challenges like these play an important role in helping Rowcroft provide its vital care to people living with life-limiting illnesses across South Devon. You can support the Kilimanjaro team by donating to their fundraising efforts at www.justgiving.com/campaign/climbkilimanjaroforrowcroft

Feeling inspired to take on a challenge of your own? From running and cycling, to taking on an adventure or something completely your own, there are lots of ways to get involved. To find out more about fundraising for Rowcroft and choosing a challenge that’s right for you, visit: www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising/challenges