Worcestershire community conquers Snowdon at sunrise to support local hospitals charity

Fifty-eight determined individuals from across Worcestershire came together to take on a remarkable challenge climbing Snowdon in the dark, all in the hope of witness a breathtaking sunrise from the summit. This awe-inspiring trek, organised by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity, has already raised over £21,000 for the Charity. Helping to enhance hospital life in ways that go above and beyond core NHS services, bringing comfort, innovation, and care to those who need it most.

Guided by the expert team from Sky Blue Adventures, participants set off in less than favourable conditions. With head torches beaming and spirits high, participants battled torrential rain and 50mph winds. Despite the extreme weather, most reached the summit, – a truly triumphant moment made all the more powerful by a shared sense of purpose and community spirit.

Each participant had their own unique and personal reason for taking on this challenge, whether hospital staff raising funds for their departments, patients in a show of gratitude for care received, or community members coming together for their local hospitals.

Paige Cheshire, who climbed with her family to give back to the Neonatal Unit at Worcestershire Royal Hospital after her son was born at 30 weeks due to a placental abruption.

Paige said “My beautiful boy came into the world tiny and fragile. What followed was an emotional 47-day stay in Neonatal Unit – intubation, sepsis, and a cerebral palsy diagnosis. But throughout it all, the Neonatal Team stood by us with expertise, compassion, and unwavering support. They saved my boy – and held me up when I needed strength the most.”

Or husband and wife, Andy and Heather Asbury, who climbed alongside Dawn Forbes, Children’s Cancer specialist nurse to raise funds for one of Charity’s specialist funds, The Children of Worcestershire and Herefordshire Cancer Fund, which supported their son, Josh, during his treatment.

“Without the support of Dawn and the Charity, Josh’s hospital journey would have been very different from little things like fresh fruit vouchers for the fruit stall outside the hospital to bigger things like Halloween parties they helped us to make memories and to feel more comfortable during our hospital stays. Even now, they’re still there for us after Josh rang his end-of-treatment bell,” Andy said.

Also among the climbers were members of the Children’s Emergency Department team, joined by friends and family, raising funds to purchase toys and therapeutic resources to help young patients feel more at ease during hospital visits.

Natalya Moore, Children’s Emergency Department Manager, said: “Our trained Healthcare Play Specialists use toys and resources to deliver therapeutic play techniques that help children better understand their illness and treatment. This support reduces anxiety and helps both children and their families feel more relaxed during their time with us.”

The event was proudly sponsored by Altera Digital Health, whose generous support helped make the challenge possible. Their involvement reflects a shared commitment to giving back to the community and supporting local healthcare services.

Laura Gregory, Community and Events Fundraising Officer for Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity, shared: “It’s been fantastic to see so many people from across Worcestershire come together for this incredible challenge. Over £14,500 was raised even before we even set off, and the total has now climbed to over £21,000 and still rising! It was an absolute pleasure to walk alongside everyone – even in less than favourable conditions, which only made the experience even more inspiring and memorable.”

This inspiring achievement showcases the power of community – and the willingness of local people to go above and beyond for a cause close to their hearts. All funds raised will go directly to Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity, supporting projects that enhance care and experiences for patients across the region.

You can find out more about Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity by visiting their website: www.wahcharity.org