In 2024, I decided to fundraise for Get Construction Talking, which incorporates Mates in Mind. I’d climbed Mont Blanc before so this time I wanted to take on an even harder challenge, something that people would think is unbelievable. Since the Matterhorn looks unclimbable, I thought that would be the perfect challenge for fundraising, it had the wow-factor!
As I work in the construction industry, I decided to approach businesses for sponsorship to support the challenge. This was the primary way I raised money; I would say it was about 80-90% of the funds. In the end, I was able to raise £26,800, amazingly this was then tripled by the funder for Get Construction Talking so the total was around £80,000.
In preparation for the climb, I signed up with a specialist guide from Switzerland, I was approved to complete the climb because I had a proven track record from climbing Mont Blanc. I started a training regime about four-five months ahead of the climb, I even started sleeping in an altitude tent to prepare for the heights, which really helped, although it was unpleasant in the summer!
The trip itself took a week, the first two days were practise climbs and we would sleep in a hostel in the evenings. The actual Matterhorn climb took four days, including a 7-mile trek back into the town after the descent. I was well prepared for the climb from training, so it did feel easier than my previous challenge but as you got to the top it was deep snow, it felt like every step was two feet up. At one point the guide said, ‘if you stop one more time we are going to turn around’. I knew I had to keep going, to complete the challenge for all the people who had supported and donated.
I have continued to speak at events for Mates in Mind and Get Construction Talking, discussing my own personal experience with mental health and engaging with support charities. I know first-hand their value and wanted to do my bit by fundraising and showing support. I wanted to fundraise for Get Construction Talking (and Mates in Mind) because working in the construction sector I’m aware of the impact of mental ill-health, I know it’s important and I want to continue to raise awareness.
