A hospitality worker from Sheffield has raised over £1,500 for a mental health charity in memory of his cousin.
Simon Watts, from Greystones, spent last weekend walking and running up and down the hill in Bingham Park, to climb the height of the world’s highest mountain.
The endurance challenge, known as ‘Everesting’, is becoming more common in the cycling community, but Simon decided to do it entirely on foot.
Mr Watts said: “I had no sleep. I started at about 2 in the morning on Saturday and went through until about 8 in the evening on Sunday.”
In total he climbed 30,000 feet across the weekend of his 30th birthday, which coincidentally took 30 hours to complete.
The money raised will go towards Mind Over Mountains, a charity who offer mental health support through outdoor experiences.
Mr Watts has felt strongly about spreading awareness for mental health issues since he lost his friend to suicide during the pandemic.
This drive was re-ignited recently after his cousin, Rachel, took her own life last year.
He said: “It was a huge shock to the whole family… she was the larger-than-life character, really motivating, really energetic, really friendly,
“She was incredible.”
Mr Watts said the challenge gave him time to reflect on losing Rachel, and his highlight of the fundraising has been the overwhelming support from strangers.
He said: “Challenges like this are a great way of making noise.”
Later this year, in May, he plans to cycle all the way to Australia, where Rachel lived, to raise more money for mental health support.
Helen Wooldridge, from Mind Over Mountains, said Simon’s fundraising has been of incredible value to the charity.
She said: “Not only has he raised an incredible amount of money by achieving this amazing feat, but he also shared the message about mental health awareness with so many people.”
Ian Sansbury, CEO of Mind Over Mountains, added: “The need is huge, and what Simon has done will help us so much, we are humbled by his achievement.”
Simon’s fundraising page can be found here, and you can find more information on Mind Over Mountains’ website.