A time for Reflection and Expression of Thanks

Five days ago now, after an exhausting climb from Kibo Huts, I along with 3 others of my party successfully reached the summit of Kilimanjaro. Over the next few days I will retell the story of my journey from Milton Keynes to Uhuru Peak and back again, but for now I feel its a time of reflection and thanks.

In the days and hours since Friday morning, I have had time to bathe in a certain amount of reflective glory. To be honest I never visualised any other outcome for myself, right from the very first moment, back in October 2008, when I signed up for the trip. That may indeed sound very arrogant, and inflective, but as Nigel, Mark, Jane, Dean, Jez, Jacquie, Peter and Charlie will all testify, there comes a point in the journey when you realise only you know if you are going to get to the top. Friendship and encouragement undoubtedly carries you so far, but in the end, climbing Kilimanjaro is all about your PERSONAL battle with the mountain, its nature, environment and your own inner demons.

Before retelling my story (from my narrow participative point of view) I wanted to say a few words of thanks.

Thanks to my fellow climbers, Mark, Nigel, Jane, Jez, Jacquie, Peter, Dean and Charlie for allowing me to participate and share with them the trials and tribulations of a memorable trip.

Thanks to the people of Milton Keynes who have so eagerly supported my fundraising to make my participation in the trip possible.

Thanks to my friends and family for their unswerving support and encouragement.

Thanks too to Makele and his team of hard working guides and porters from the African Walking Company. You are a truely amazing group of people.

Finally, thanks to everyone involved in and around the Charity, Climb Your Mountain. You have provided me with faith, fun and friendship at a time when I needed it most. But most importantly of all, you have provided me with opportunity! Opportunity that I hope I have lived up to and rewarded you in a small way with fundraising and support.