The ‘F’ words - Fitness, Fun and Fundraising

We have all been affected in some way by a family member, friend or an acquaintance who has had to endure the suffering of a terminal illness. The service that Waipuna Hospice is providing to our community in alleviating the suffering of those in need is highly commendable.

I have had amazing memories with Mauao over the years. I have run/walked up and around it many many times in the 20 years I have lived in the Bay of Plenty. I remember my first time, when I was anaemic and unfit, I struggled to even walk up. Since then I have improved my fitness and have been lucky to train on Mauao for the Marathons that I have run in the last few years.

Mauao was a spiritual symbol for the Maoris well before we came to this land. I have deep respect for this wonderful hill and she has been a source of joy and inspiration to our family. I see people of all ages, shapes and sizes walking/running on Mauao.

My husband, Rob and I have been to Mt Everest Base Camp and know how difficult the conditions are up there. I don’t think I’ll be able to climb Mt Everest in this lifetime.

So the oppportunity to raise funds for Waipuna Hospice and climb our beautiful local hill, Mauao 38 times which will be the height of Mt Everest was hard to pass up on.

My beautiful friend, Tracey Fellingham has decided to join me and climb Mauao with me come rain, hail or sunshine 😃 Some other lovely friends like, Charyse Cole are planning to join us for some of the climbs.