Gary Knight has successfully climbed to the top of the 5,895m renowned mountain, Kilimanjaro, in Africa. His efforts were to raise funds for the Dorset-based charity that supports children, adults, and their families with cerebral palsy and other physical and learning disabilities.
As a volunteer and trustee of the Diverse Abilities Plus since 2012, Gary, age 39 from Poole wanted to push himself to undertake a life changing challenge and raise £3,000.
To get ready for the challenge, Gary stepped up his training routine and over the last nine months has been walking, running and cycling most days. He also attended a training weekend in Wales with members of the Kilimanjaro expedition group, for a long hike and team bonding session.
Gary said of his trip: “The whole experience was hugely rewarding and exciting, and I would recommend the challenge to anyone. My aim was to push the boundaries while raising vital funds for Diverse Abilities Plus and I have achieved this. I was totally out of my comfort zone during the climb, but it was such a great experience. For anyone thinking of taking part next year, I’d say go for it, but be prepared. It is not only hard physically, but at times mentally tough as well.”
To date, Gary has raised £2,640 for Diverse Abilities Plus. To help Gary reach his target of £3,000, supporters of the charity can donate by visiting www.justgiving.com/Gary-Knight-Trek.
The next Kilimanjaro Climb is due to take place in October 2014. If you would like to take on the challenge and raise funds to ensure the charity’s services can provide the support required to adults and children in Dorset, please call Sharon Wells on 01202 718266 or email sharon.wells@diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk.
For further information on the work for Diverse Abilities Plus, please visit www.diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk
