A WOKINGHAM woman is enjoying putting her feet up after taking part in one of the world’s biggest challenges, writes Raj Khan.
Chiara Evans, a member of the Wokingham Lions Club, recently returned home after taking part in a trek up Mount Everest to raise much-needed funds for blood cancer charity Myeloma UK.
As well as raising funds and conquering the famous mountain, Mrs Evans also overcame her fear of flying and, hopefully, inspired her son in the process.
And this was no walk in the park. To prepare, Mrs Evans had to make some sacrifices including cutting coffee and alcohol, as well as undertaking high-intensity interval training four times a week, and going hill-walking.
But her efforts were worth it, as she raised £1,695 for the charity.
Mrs Evans said: “The best part was the experience of meeting and making life-long friends, and the scenery was spectacular.
“Nepal is a phenomenal place to visit. The people are so warm and welcoming, happy, content and ever so polite.” She said photographs do not do justice to the beauty of the area.
She added: “Be naïve enough to start and stubborn enough to finish. Having stumbled across this quote, I decided to undertake a physically demanding challenge.”
Mrs Evans said that she chose Myeloma UK after her father-in-law received a cancer diagnosis in the past year, while her mother-in-law passed away due to another type of blood cancer five years ago. She believes research into finding a cure for all types of cancer is vital.
Sheffield-based mountaineering company Jagged Globe organised the expedition, but Mrs Evans admits, she won’t be climbing every mountain.
“I wouldn’t do the same trek again,” she said, adding: “I would, however, love to return to Nepal, as it is a beautiful country, and there are so many stunning hikes to be done.
“I would love for my husband and son to see with their own eyes how remarkable Nepal really is.”
To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chiara-evans2
