An adventurous fundraiser is preparing for his toughest challenge yet in a daring quest to raise funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Raza Anjum is gearing-up to climb Khosar Gang – a 6,000-metre peak in the Karakoram mountains, in the western Himalayas, and one of the harshest mountain environments on Earth.
No British mountaineer has ever climbed the mountain in winter, and, in the process, he will face remote, unforgiving conditions – deep snow, fierce winds and temperatures plunging to -25 °C. If successful in summiting the mountain, Raza will make British mountaineering history.
Raza, who is originally from Saffron Walden and runs a successful commercial property law firm in central London called Heydons, says every step will demand ‘focus, resilience and determination’ but is pushing himself to the limit – both physically and mentally – to show his support for EACH.
A long-time supporter of the charity, he has previously raised several thousands of pounds for the hospice after trekking to Everest Base Camp and climbing Mount Toubkal – the highest peak in Morocco.
He has visited EACH’s Milton hospice and spoke about his experiences during this week’s fundraising carol service at Saffron Walden Baptist Church.
“Sir Edmund Hillary, the first climber to summit Mount Everest, once said ‘it’s not the mountain we conquer but ourselves’ and that’s certainly true,” said intrepid Raza.
“However, I also think true summits are measured by the difference we make in the lives of others.
“Every metre I climb for EACH is a step towards comfort, care and hope for children and families across East Anglia.
“When I think about the challenge ahead, I also think about the families being supported – the courage they show every day, the strength it takes to keep going and the moments of joy they cherish, even when life is difficult.
“Those families are my inspiration, and their bravery reminds me that human spirit is stronger than any mountain.”
The Karakoram mountain range is home to some of the world’s tallest mountains, including K2, the second highest mountain on Earth.
At over 6,000 metres, thin air and extreme altitude make every movement physically demanding – not to mention freezing temperatures, violent winds and heavy snowfall.
“Every step and every decision will require careful planning and unwavering focus,” added Raza.
“However, this is another opportunity for me to make a real difference for the children and families being supported by EACH.
“It’s a charity I admire so much, embodying courage and dedication, and the work it does is extraordinary.
“The team show so much compassion, care and love, supporting children and families facing challenges no-one should ever have to face.
“Their dedication and the hope they bring into people’s lives is inspiring beyond words. It’s humbling and motivates me to push myself further in everything I do.
“Over the years, I’ve tried to give back in my own way, by climbing mountains.
“Mountains have a way of testing you. They strip life down to the essentials – courage, determination, focus and perseverance – and I’ve learned that when a mountain has purpose behind it, when every step is for something bigger than yourself, even the hardest climbs feel meaningful.”
Raza is flying out of the UK on Saturday (20th December) and, after taking an internal flight, is due to begin his ten-day expedition on Tuesday (23rd December).
To show your support for EACH and to sponsor him, head here.
