Climbing New Heights for East Lancashire Hospice
Alex Smith from Accrington, along with his two friends Matt and John are taking on a challenge that will see them reaching new heights as they raise money for East Lancashire Hospice.
In memory of Alex’s mum, Rosemary, the three of them will be raising money for the hospice by taking part in the Everest Base Camp challenge; walking 17,598 ft above sea level.
Alex's mother received her initial cancer diagnosis in March 2016, learning from her consultant that the cancer had spread throughout her body, with no treatment available for recovery. Given a prognosis of just six months to live, she was referred to the hospice for compassionate care and support. It was at that point that Rosemary joined the Creative and Support Therapy service at East Lancashire Hospice; where she met new friends, gained new skills and made the most of life.
Alex commented, “The support we received instantly from the hospice was second to none. Mum was able to get the respite she needed by going to the hospice when she felt she needed to. She would always come home so happy after her day. There were so many activities she could do whilst at the hospice – arts and crafts, she took part in a choir performance at Bridgewater Hall in Manchester, the wonderful parties they would have together at the hospice, whether it was Easter, Christmas, whatever the occasion.”
The idea of taking part in Everest Base Camp first came from Alex’s friend Matt, who had always wanted to complete the challenge. When discussed with Alex, there was no question that the three of them would conquer Mount Everest in honour of Alex’s mum, Rosemary and the care she received during her time at East Lancashire Hospice.
He continued, “I have seen first-hand just how much the hospice can help people. The best part about it was that my mum made so many friends and created some special bonds with people that were in the same situation as herself.
“Sadly, after almost 8 years after her diagnosis, mum died. Some of her happiest times in her last 8 years were 
spent at the hospice and now it's time to give back. We would like the hospice to be able to continue doing the amazing work it does for people and so my friends and I will take on this challenge to ensure we have done our bit in supporting them in honour of my mum.”
The three friends will be taking part in the Everest Base Camp Challenge this March and have been training for the event since 2021. After much hard work and determination, they are now ready to take on the challenge with the hospice in the front of their mind and Alex’s mum in their hearts.
East Lancashire Hospice provides support to patients and their families within Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and rely on charitable donations to provide their services, which costs £4 million a year.
If you would like to support Alex, Matt and John in their Everest Challenge, please donate via their online giving page -https://www.justgiving.com/page/matt-allen-1704210503212 or by calling East Lancashire Hospice – 01254 965877.