Amy Dickson will reach new heights this October as she looks to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro to help raise funds for children, young people and families across Scotland.
Amy, an Assistant Project Worker for includem, will climb over 36 miles (around 19,000 feet in elevation) of the African mountain to raise funds for includem’s Young Person’s Fund alongside her cousin. The fund is used by includem to provide extra support to children, young people and families they charity supports across Scotland, many of whom are affected by poverty and don’t always have access to thing that many of us take for granted.
Talking of her adventure, Amy said:
“Getting to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro has been on my bucket list for a long time and I’ve been saving up for this since I was 15 years old.
“It’s something we’ve always done as a family (climbing and walking), especially with my mum. She climbed Machu Pichu recently and that has motivated me to accomplish this. Alongside my cousin, I hopefully will be able to say I’ve climbed the tallest mountain in Africa.”
“I love walking and climbing Munros, but this is a bit different. It’s a nine-day trek and we’ll be going via the Lemosho Route. It’s just over 36 miles and around 19,000 feet in elevation. It’ll be like climbing Ben Nevis nearly five times which is a crazy thought!
“As I’ve been planning and preparing, I’m informed the last day can be considered the worst in your life. It’s eight hours of trekking, partly through the night, and it’s the point when altitude sickness can really take its toll. However, it’s a challenge and one I’m excited about accomplishing.”
Amy’s love for walking and climbing is something she’s looked to help in her work supporting children, young people, and families.
“I love working with those we support. At includem, we always look at how we can adapt our support to the benefit of the children, young people, and families. This often involves considering what they are comfortable with and what they enjoy.”
“I’m always trying to encourage them (children, young people, and families) to come for a walk with me. Getting outdoors and participating in even light exercise is so beneficial for your health and wellbeing. It might take a bit of planning and encouragement, but I do find it’s such an enjoyable experience for them at the end of the day.”
“To be able to raise funds for the Young Persons Fund is a huge motivator for me. I know the difference the funds can make for those we support, so I’m hoping this journey will have a positive contribution. Anything anyone can donate is greatly appreciated.”
You can follow Amy’s training and adventure by following the includem social media channels. Amy is raising funds via Just Giving. You can find out more and donate by clicking here.
