A HAIRDRESSER has climbed the world’s highest free-standing mountain in memory of her grandfather and in aid of the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS).
Rebecca Mather, from Whitley Bay, endured a six-day trek to Mount Kilimanjaro with friends Alexandra and Thomas Lloyd.
Ms Mather, 26, signed up for the climb as a personal challenge but also to raise money for GNAAS, which airlifted her grandfather George Mather after he was struck by a car in Whitley Bay in 2014. He was flown to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, but later died as a result of the injuries he sustained.
Ms Mather said the challenge – which she hopes will raise £300 for GNAAS – was a fitting tribute to her grandfather. “He was such a selfless person who did a lot for others. He would often do the neighbours shopping and was always giving to the community. GNAAS is an amazing charity. They helped my family so we are helping them,” she said.
The journey started on January 29 from Barafu base camp. Ms Mather had to overcome altitude sickness and said challenge was one she would never forget.
She added: “The trip was an emotional rollercoaster. One minute I could be hanging behind feeling down and then the next minute I could be speeding ahead feeling energetic and singing. My moods were like a flick switch.
“The views from the mountain made the whole illness and challenge worth it. The trip was amazing.”
GNAAS is a charity which solely rely on public donations. To support click here.
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