News

A determined adventurer from Yeovil has set off on one of the world’s most iconic trekking challenges this May, all in support of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

Peter Mawhood, 65, set off on 5 May to begin his journey to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, a trek expected to take around 2 weeks.

Peter hopes to raise £1,500 for CHSW and is already close to reaching his target.

This latest expedition builds on an impressive list of previous achievements. At the age of 61, Peter successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, reaching a summit height of 5,895 metres in temperatures as low as -20°C. Two years later, he completed the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal, a 21-day trek that included crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres.

Despite these accomplishments, this is Peter’s first time trekking to Everest Base Camp and his first challenge in support of CHSW.

“I love trekking in the mountains, the views are amazing,” said Peter before setting off. “As you get higher, the challenge of carrying on with less and less oxygen is one I really enjoy.”

He prepared rigorously for the journey by walking at least 10 kilometres a day at a fast pace, often tackling hilly routes to build endurance. However, Peter anticipated the toughest part would be the final push to Base Camp itself.

“We’ll start walking at around 6am to avoid the fierce afternoon winds,” he explained. “The round trip from Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp and back takes around eight hours, and reaching 5,364 metres will be a real test.”

Peter chose to support CHSW because of the vital care the charity provides to children with life-limiting conditions and their families.

“I wanted to achieve something good out of something I enjoy,” he said. 

“I can’t think of any better charity than helping children enjoy their last days in the best way possible.

"As a parent, I can’t imagine what it would be like to have a child that will not outlive me.”

It costs almost £16 million to keep the 3 of the CHSW hospices open and provide vital care to families wherever they are across the South West, whilst also raising the funds needed to continue supporting babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families. Every contribution helps families access the care and support they need during the most challenging times.

Kylie Gallagher, Area Fundraiser for CHSW, added: “We are incredibly grateful to Peter for taking on such an inspiring challenge in support of Children’s Hospice South West. His dedication and determination are truly remarkable, and the funds he raises will make a real difference to the children and families we care for. We wish him the very best of luck on his trek and hope the community will get behind him and help him smash his fundraising target.”

You can support Peter by clicking here.