Keegan's Climb to Everest!

Hi everyone!

For those of you who didn't already know, SURPRISE – I'm climbing to Everest Base Camp with a wonderful group of St Andrews Students! Even more exciting is that we are using this amazing opportunity to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer's Research UK, a cause truly so close to my heart. Alzheimer's Research UK is working to revolutionise the way we treat, diagnose and prevent dementia. They envision a world free from the fear, harm and heartbreak of dementia and I can't think of a better cause to support as I take on this journey.

On a more serious note- I'm planning to travel the 4,594 miles from Edinburgh to Nepal and hike up to 5364m (17,598ft) elevation with various people affected Alzheimer's or Dementia in mind. We will start our Trek in Lukla at 2860m (9400ft) and I'm hoping to ascend each 125m stretch spotlighting a different person; this can feature anyone affected by Dementia, whether a caregiver or a loved one living with this disease. It's my hope to showcase the wonderful people in our lives who have been affected by Dementia and why it is so important to work towards a cure in their honor. The final 125m of the ascent will be to honor my Mimi, who is currently living with Dementia, and my Poppy, who was her best friend and caregiver until he passed away in 2020. Mimi and Poppy were always there for every single event – they always showed up for the people they loved, no matter how small the occasion. Mimi's battle with Dementia has prevented her from continuing to show up and be with her family and friends, and the toll it has taken on our family is not a unique story. It will be my privledge to fundraise in honor of the people we love who are so deeply affected by this disease, and to help make a positive contribution so that others do not have to be fated to a similar story.

Any contribution you can make to this fund, no matter how small is so deeply appreciated. If you are looking to sponsor a 125m stretch, with a group or on your own, I'm asking for a $135/£100 donation. Please feel free to email me kgs2@st-andrews.ac.uk with any questions at all. Follow my instagram to find more resources about this adventure, Alzheimer's Research UK, and follow along on my training and journey, so stay tuned! https://www.instagram.com/trek_with_keegan/

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read this!