A Long Eaton man is preparing to trek to Everest base camp to support families affected by motor neurone disease. Pete Collins is taking on the towering challenge in memory of his father and aunt, both of whom died from the condition. He will travel to Nepal this November to raise money for the MND Association.
The funds raised will provide vital support for people living with the disease and help research potential new treatments. Mr Collins has a long history of supporting the charity and currently works for the organisation. He will face an 18-day trek, reaching altitudes above 17,500 feet.
Understanding Motor Neurone Disease
Motor neurone disease is a fast-moving neurological condition that attacks the nerves and affects a person's ability to speak and move. Around 5,000 people are currently living with the disease across the UK.
Personal Motivation
Pete said: “This challenge has been on my bucket list for a number of years, having also trekked in Machu Picchu in 2009 and Mount Kilimanjaro in 2011. It’s going to be tough, the altitude is difficult, but it’s nothing to the challenge faced by people living with MND and their families every single day.”
He added: “It’s very personal for me. I’ve seen first-hand just how devastating this disease can be, but through my work for the MND Association, I have also seen the support that’s out there and the progress being made in MND research.”
Pete said: “When things get tough, my thoughts will be with dad and my aunt and everyone else who is affected by the cruel disease.”
How to Support
You can support the fundraiser by visiting Pete's official JustGiving page online. Further information about the condition can be found on the MND Association website.
