Mount Everest trek for QEHB Charity

On 27 October James Webley and Charlotte Radovanovic completed a challenge of a lifetime, they successfully climbed the formidable height of Mount Everest Base Camp!

The couple decided to brave the harsh conditions in honor of past and present veterans who have served or who are currently serving for our country. The event was made all the more poignant as by the time they reached the base camp of Mount Everest it was 11am GMT on Sunday 11 November 2018, a date that coincided with the centenary year of Armistice Day that took place in November 1918.

Surrounded by the picturesque imagery of the Himalayas at approximately 5,380m altitude they conducted their service at Everest’s base camp, the pair were then joined by the patriots of Gorak Shep to conclude what was a truly meaningful experience for both Charlotte and James, Charlotte said:

“We held our own act of remembrance at Base Camp and then also a service at 11am with the patriots of Gorak Shep. It was absolutely magical and it was the most incredible journey. Thank you so much everyone for all of your support and we thought of everyone at 11am GMT. We soon made it back down the mountain to find some much needed thicker air!”

James represented the Armed Forces veteran community. After having served for 12 years his military career unfortunately ended due to chronic hip pain brought on by his military service.
Charlotte said: “James’ determination to not let this affect his life, dreams and goals is inspiring. This was a huge challenge for him as he lives in constant pain every day” despite this, James appeared to have completed the trek with ease posing for a celebratory picture when they reached their destination.

Charlotte, an Ophthalmology Research Project Manager at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham represented the medical community by flying the flag for QEHB Charity. The pair raised an astonishing amount of money for QEHB Charity and The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Despite setting their original goal of £2,000 the pair smashed their target after reaching over £3,000! Both charities were chosen due to performing “truly life-altering work with their funds raised” they said.

Justine Davy, Head of Fundraising at QEHB Charity, said: “I am delighted that the Charity was chosen by James and Charlotte. This challenge took an extraordinary amount of resilience and on behalf of the Charity I would like to say a huge thank you for all your support. All monies raised will help continue to provide added extras that go ‘over and above’ what the NHS can fund.

Pictured above: Charlotte Radovanovic

To donate to James and Charlotte's Virgin Money page, please click here

To learn more about the hospital charity and how you too can get involved in fundraising, please click here