Ronnie is taking on the world’s highest freestanding mountain next February and raising funds in support of Winston’s Wish. He shared with us why taking on the trek means so much to him and what he’s most looking forward to about completing the fantastic challenge.
Tell us about your challenge in aid of Winston’s Wish.
I have signed up to take on the Kilimanjaro Trek in February 2024. Kilimanjaro is the highest freestanding mountain in the world, at 5895m. It’s something I have wanted to do for a few years but haven’t made it a priority, but now it’s time. It’s all booked and I’m really excited about the challenge ahead.
Why did you choose to support Winston’s Wish?
50 years ago when I was just 5 years old, I lost my beloved little brother William Klos due to a fatal car accident. Back then, there was no support for parents, guardians, siblings or family members during these tough times. When something like this happens you do not know how you feel and you don’t understand your emotions, but later on in life you realise you needed the help and support, which, if you received at the time could have changed your attitude towards family and friends. Reflecting on all of this, you end up hating yourself. Why am I here and not him? It scares me a lot as I hate receiving love, but I love giving love.
How do you plan to fundraise?
I have already created an online fundraising page which has raised over £3,900 already which I’m thrilled about and I have lots of promised pledges for after payday. I’m grateful to have such incredibly supportive family and friends.
Ronnie with best friend Paul
Have you thought about the training needed?
I am generally really fit which is a great foundation to start but I will be doing lots of walks. I will need to get some hill/mountain training in too though. I will regularly update my JustGiving page to keep everyone up to date on how my training is going.
What are you most looking forward to about your challenge?
Truthfully – Hopefully to succeed for my brother I knew only briefly and make memories, also for my dad who actually made me the man I am! And lastly for my best friend and brother Paul Peacock who stood by me through thick and thin. I wish I could have given him so much of the love that he gave me and supported me with through life.
What do you think will be your biggest challenge?
Possible altitude sickness! It can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, fitness or how much training you have done so I’m really hoping I don’t suffer with that – fingers crossed!
Special thanks to Ronnie for all of his hard work so far and for sharing his story with us. If you would like to donate to support Ronnie’s climb his JustGiving page is here.
More inspiring fundraisers
Charlotte’s epic trek across New Zealand
Charlotte has taken on the adventure of a lifetime and is trekking 3,000km across New Zealand to raise money for Winston’s Wish and process her own grief.
Ryan’s 12 marathon challenge
Ryan ran 12 marathons in 12 months, on his own with no support to show how much harder things are to overcome when you struggle on your own.