A British lawyer and adventurer is preparing to make mountaineering history in one of the planet's most extreme environments, all in support of a vital children's charity.
An Unprecedented Winter Challenge
Raza Anjum, a commercial property lawyer from Saffron Walden, has embarked on a daring expedition to summit Khosar Gang, a 6,000-metre peak in Pakistan's Karakoram range. No British climber has ever achieved a winter ascent of this formidable mountain, situated in the western Himalayas. His ten-day climb, which began on Tuesday, December 23, will see him confront remote, punishing conditions including deep snow, violent winds, and temperatures plummeting to -25 °C.
Raza, who runs the Heydons law firm in central London, departed the UK on Saturday, December 20. He views the immense physical and mental challenge as a way to push his limits for a cause close to his heart. "Every step will demand 'focus, resilience and determination'," he stated, echoing the mindset needed for such a feat.
Climbing for a Cause: Supporting East Anglia's Children's Hospices
The primary driver behind this perilous journey is fundraising for East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH). A long-standing supporter, Raza has previously raised thousands for the charity by trekking to Everest Base Camp and climbing Mount Toubkal in Morocco. He has visited EACH's Milton hospice and spoken at their carol service in Saffron Walden.
"Sir Edmund Hillary... once said, 'It's not the mountain we conquer but ourselves,'" Raza reflected. "However, I also think true summits are measured by the difference we make in the lives of others." He described every metre climbed as a step towards providing "comfort, care and hope" for children and families across East Anglia, citing their daily courage as his core inspiration.
Facing the 'Harshest Mountain Environment on Earth'
The Karakoram range, home to K2, presents some of the most severe climbing conditions globally. At over 6,000 metres, the thin air and extreme altitude alone make movement gruelling, compounded by the winter's brutal snowfall and wind. Raza acknowledges that every decision on the mountain must be meticulously planned.
"This is another opportunity for me to make a real difference for the children and families being supported by EACH," he said. He praised the charity's "extraordinary" work, compassion, and dedication, which motivates him to push further. For Raza, mountains test essential human qualities like perseverance, and when the climb has a purpose beyond oneself, even the hardest efforts become profoundly meaningful.
If successful, Raza Anjum will secure a unique place in British mountaineering history. Those wishing to support his historic attempt and donate to East Anglia's Children's Hospices can do so via his JustGiving page.
