Winston’s Wish, the leading childhood bereavement charity in the UK, is feeling inspired by the moving story of a selfless young girl who is going to climb Mount Snowdon in support of Winston’s Wish and the work it does with bereaved children. 

Isla Allen, from Nottinghamshire, is taking on the challenge to support other boys and girls who have experienced bereavement. Despite being just 4 years old, Isla will be embarking on the mammoth challenge of climbing the highest mountain in Wales – Mount Snowdon – with other members of her family.

The ambitious youngster chose to raise money for Winston’s Wish after seeing a video story online of children that have been supported by the charity. It’s not the first time that Isla has shown consideration for others through fundraising, after cutting 12inches off her hair to raise money for the Little Princess Trust in 2015.

Whilst many adults would baulk at the thought of climbing Snowdon, young Isla is fearless and, unbelievably, has had a mountain in her sights since last year. Training for the climb has involved swimming twice a week, several hoola-hooping marathons and bike rides, whilst the park obstacle course is next on the training agenda.

At 4 years old, Isla will be undertaking her biggest obstacle to date alongside her grandmother, Pauline, who is 60 and has never embarked on a challenge like this before. Joining them will be Josephine and Sarah, Isla’s mum and aunty. The climb will be taking place on the 9^th of April, 2016.

Isla and her family are eager to raise as much money as possible and are fundraising in a number of ways, including collection boxes and a name the bear competition. Her Just Giving page can be found at https://www.justgiving.com/Josephine-Allen5/

Each year, Winston’s Wish reaches more than 40,000 bereaved children and young people through an array of dedicated services. These specialist support programmes include support following death as a result of accident, illness, homicide, suicide and military service.

Josephine Allen, Isla’s mum, said:

“The determination Isla is showing is incredible, but as we ascend the mountain face I expect her to be truly tested – at 4years old, there are an awful lot of steps needed to make it to the top! We are so proud of her for wanting to support other children – she celebrates every donation that appears with a little grin and a dance! That support is incredibly valuable and we really hope everyone can get behind her and help her to raise as much as possible.”

Elizabeth Tomala, Community Fundraising Assistant at Winston’s Wish, said:

“When we received news that Isla was going to be climbing Mount Snowdon at the age of 4, we really could not believe it! She is such an inspiring young girl and an example for all to follow. We can’t wait to hear about her progress and are delighted she is doing so to support Winston’s Wish.”