First Firefighter To Summit Mount Everest In Kit

Climbing Everest in Firefighting Kit: A Mission for Mental Health, Firefighters, and Our Planet

My name is Rhys Fitzgerald, I will attempt something no one has ever done before: I will climb Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, wearing full firefighting kit and representing the UK Fire Service.

This is more than a climb. It’s a challenge to human limits, a way to break barriers, and above all, a chance to raise awareness for three causes I care deeply about: Mind Mental Health, The Fire Fighters Charity, and the Nimsdai Foundation’s Clean Up Project.

Why Mental Health Matters

For me, this cause is personal. I’ve seen the effects of mental health struggles on my family, friends, and colleagues. As a firefighter, I’ve also experienced the toll first-hand. Behind the sirens and the bravery, there are moments of silence when the weight of trauma and stress becomes heavy.

There were times when I struggled with my own mental health. I know how it feels to think you have to carry it alone. But what I’ve learned is this: it’s okay not to be okay. Reaching out is a sign of courage, not weakness.

This climb is my way of raising awareness and breaking the stigma to encourage people everywhere to start conversations, to seek support, and to know that hope is always possible.

Why Everest, and Why Firefighting Kit?

The mountains have always been my escape - a place to reset, recharge, and find peace. Climbing pushes me physically and mentally, but it also helps me heal.

Everest is the ultimate test, standing at 8,849 metres. By taking it on in full firefighting kit, I want to symbolise the burden carried by firefighters and countless others who face unseen struggles every day. It’s a powerful way to inspire people to rise above their challenges and to show that no weight is too heavy when we face it together.

The Fire Fighters Charity & The Clean Up Project

Alongside mental health, I’m climbing for The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides vital support for firefighters and their families whether recovering from injury, trauma, or emotional strain. It’s a lifeline for so many, and I want to give back.

I’ll also support the Nimsdai Foundation’s Clean Up Project, helping to collect waste left on Everest and raising awareness about protecting fragile environments. The mountains have given me strength, and I want to help preserve them for future generations.

How You Can Help!?!

This journey isn’t just about me it’s about all of us. Every donation will be split between the three charities.

But you don’t just have to donate. You can join me in training challenges, spread the word, and follow my progress on Instagram: @_rhysfitzgerald.

Let’s Move Mountains - Together

This climb is a message of resilience, compassion, and community. With your support, we can raise awareness for mental health, stand with firefighters, and protect the environment.

Together, we can prove that no mountain is too high, no weight too heavy, and no struggle too great when we face it side by side.

Let’s move mountains — together.