There’s not many that can say they’ve summited Mt Everest in their lifetime. And on-call firefighter Rhys Fitzgerald is hoping to set a world record by doing it in full fire kit.
Rhys, who works for Mid and West Wales FRS, is training to take on the epic challenge in 2025, as well as climbing Ama Dablam this year, all to raise funds for us and two other charities.
“I’ve always known about The Fire Fighters Charity and I was always going to support it if I did a fundraising challenge,” says Rhys, 27. “I’m very aware of the support it offers myself and my colleagues, not just in Mid and West Wales but across the UK.
“We’re being called to more medical situations now than we have for years, everything feels like it’s getting tougher and it will likely get a lot more difficult before it gets better when it comes to mental health, so knowing the Charity is there for life is a massive reassurance.”
Rhys has also chosen to support Mind and the Nimsdai Foundation Big Mountain Cleanup, with all funds raised to be split 50-50 between funding the challenges and donated equally to the three of us.
“I’ve been a firefighter for several years now and times have changed with the variety calls we respond to, but it’s not just the fire service, it’s all organisations on the front line,” adds Rhys. “It’s important to speak out to your colleagues, friends and family, to seek help if needed no matter how big or small your matter is.
“What I found helps me was to escape into the fresh air and get up the mountains. Due to this my hobby has lead me here, to push myself physically and mentally and to spread awareness about mental health.”
Rhys will take the challenge on in specially made mountaineering boots, along with full fire kit.
To support Rhys’ fundraiser, click here.
