This one's for you, Laus - to the top of Mt Kilimanjaro

This September, I will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro - 5,895 metres above sea level - in memory of my dear friend Laura Orr, who tragically passed away at 35 years old from bowel cancer in March 2025.

Laus was selfless and didn’t like to be the centre of attention, yet she was always one of the first to offer help and support to anyone who needed it. So, taking a leaf out of Laura’s book, I want to pay it forward and help those in need receive the same support she did in her final days.

Laus was cared for at home by Caitlin, Sharon and the team at Franklin Hospice, whose compassion extended not only to her, but to all of us who loved her. They helped bring a little comfort during such a heartbreaking time.

Franklin Hospice receives only 50% of its funding from the government, relying on donations for the rest. That is why I’ve set my fundraising goal at $5,895 – one dollar for every metre I’ll climb. Every dollar counts and will go towards helping locals when they need it most.

Climbing nearly 6,000 metres up to the 'roof of Africa' will be quite a challenge... But it’s nothing compared to the mountains people with terminal illnesses face every single day.

We miss you so much, Laus. It's still hard to believe you're gone.

Thank you for your support xx