A YOUNG boy has challenged himself to climb three of the UK’s highest peaks before his tenth birthday to raise money for the charities that helped him after he became unwell while wild camping.
Will Garratt, from Great Broughton, North Yorkshire, attempted to climb Scafell Pike with his father Dave Garratt, 45, during the Easter holidays in April.
After hiking for over three hours they decided to set up camp near Sprinkling Tarn on Seathwaite Fell with the intention of reaching the summit in the morning.
Dave said: “It was an amazing, clear night which meant that we were able to enjoy some stargazing.
“Unfortunately, Will woke at 4am vomiting. This was quite sudden and severe, but being dark and -1 degree Celsius outside, we had no option other than to wait it out and keep warm.”
Will continued to be sick and was unable to eat anything, including Haribo which they had packed, and every time he took sips of water this resulted in more vomiting.
Dave said: “As day broke, we packed up and prepared to descend. I strapped Will’s pack to mine and tried to assist Will who was still throwing up violently.
“About 5-10 minutes into the descent Will’s health was deteriorating. He was tough throughout with no complaining, but with strong winds and minus temperatures, it was clear we could not continue safely.
“Will was exhausted due to the sickness, drifting in and out of sleep, vomiting continuously, so we requested assistance from mountain rescue via our satellite communications.”
Keswick Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT) and Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) responded to the incident and Will was checked over by the paramedic and doctor team from GNAAS who reassured him that he would feel better soon and didn’t need to visit a hospital.
Due to the remote location, Will and his father went in the air ambulance and were airlifted down to Seathwaite in Borrowdale so they could easily reach their vehicle and drive back home.
Dave said: “The sudden illness was a mystery. He had only eaten the same as me but he was totally exhausted and it continued for a further twelve hours once home.
“Although I have made contributions to both KMRT and GNAAS, Will wanted to show his gratitude personally.
“He has now decided to climb all three peaks – Scafell Pike 978m, Snowdon 1085m and Ben Nevis 1345m, this year before his 10th birthday in September in order to raise awareness and funding for both charities.”
To sponsor Will visit his JustGiving page.
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