A local businessman from Pontypridd has conquered his fear of heights after climbing Africa’s highest peak.
Nigel Greenaway, Director of Cardiff-based law firm, Greenaway Scott, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for St David’s Hospice Care.
Despite suffering with acute mountain sickness, which severely impacted climbing the summit, Nigel tackled the 19,000ft mountain and completed the challenge in eight days.
Nigel said: “This was an extremely difficult challenge physically and mentally. Having a fear of heights, I was terrified about having to climb Barranco Wall, which was the only vertical part of the challenge, but this actually ended up being my most memorable moment as the sheer height and view was astonishing.
“Although I am delighted to have completed the climb, I’m also disappointed that I have no recollection of making the summit and only have photos to prove it due to suffering with acute mountain sickness. Nevertheless, it’s a great achievement and I’m delighted I have raised a significant amount for St David’s Hospice Care. I hope the money will help ensure people continue to receive the care they need.”
This is one of several fundraising activities that Nigel has been involved in having previously trekked 100km in the Sahara and competing in a 200km dog sled race in the Arctic which collectively raised £8,700 for charity.
Nigel is currently planning his next challenge which will be to cycle from Cambodia to Vietnam in 2014.
Adrian Hadley, deputy chief executive of St David’s Hospice Care, said: “We’re thrilled to hear of Nigel’s safe return and once again for him selecting us as his charity.
“There is no doubt that climbing Kilimanjaro is an extremely tough challenge, so to tackle it while suffering from a fear of heights combined with acute mountain sickness really is quite an achievement. Well done Nigel from all of us at St David’s Hospice Care.”
Providing care at home and at its Outreach and Chemotherapy Centre in Malpas for over 3,200 patients each year with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses, the charity, which is based in Newport, requires £7m a year to offer its service for free to patients, carers and families across Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport, Torfaen and South and Mid Powys.
