Monday 6th June 2011 - Published by Kelly Jackson - Communications Executive
Local duo to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in aid of Compton Hospice
Two daring local businesswomen will be scaling the heights of Mount Kilimanjaro next month in a bid to raise much-needed funds for Compton Hospice.
Natalie Aldred, 26, from Cannock, and Gill Fitzpatrick, 50, from Handsacre, will be jetting off to Africa on 30th July to begin their ascent up to Kilimanjaro’s 5,895 Metre summit.
The pair hope to raise at least £7500 for Compton Hospice, and expect their climb to last 10 gruelling days.
Gill, Owner of The Local Book Keeper, Accounting Service in Hednesford, who lost her mother in a hospice, explains her motivation for this expedition:
“I know from first-hand experience what a fantastic support structure hospices provide for patients and their families. Hospices like the Compton are only 10 per cent funded by government, and rely on donations from the public to keep their doors open each year,” said Gill.
“Compton, and other hospices, offer crucial care to cancer patients, that otherwise would not be available,” added Natalie, Owner of Express Advertising in Hednesford.
The plucky duo will be sponsored every step of the way by Cannock-based, automotive specialists, Rapid Remap, who specialise in reprogramming vehicle engine computer systems to save drivers up to 20 per cent on fuel.
The company’s Managing Director, Mike Walton, has a strong affinity with the cause, as his mother lost her battle with cancer in a hospice.
As a result, the three entrepreneurs decided to join forces and raise funds after being touched by the care their families received.
“Like Gill, my mother died in a hospice. The nursing staff there were like angels on earth, giving physical and emotional support at a time of great distress,” said Mr Walton
“The Compton is a local hospice offering essential care and support to our local community, as such I see it as a very worthwhile cause, and one I am happy to support in whatever way I can,” added Mr Walton.
Wolverhampton-based Compton Hospice cares for as many as 1.3 million cancer sufferers each year. The hospice has to raise over £6 million each year to maintain end of life support and other related services.
