I don't know if it's the age we live in, or the age I'm at, but cancer seems to be impacting the lives of people I know more and more. When the opportunity presented itself, I knew it was time to act. Climbing Kilimanjaro is daunting pretty much anyway one looks at it, but knowing I am raising money to make a difference will inspire me to complete the journey. Hopefully with your donation, you can feel you're climbing with me!

If you don't know too much about Kilimanjaro - as I didn't when I rashly agreed to this – here goes: Mt Kilimanjaro, in north eastern Tanzania, is the highest mountain in Africa. It is the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, with Uhuru Peak rising to an altitude of 5,895m (19,341ft) above sea level.

So yes, this will be a proper mountain expedition – porters (like Himalayan sherpas), several days of arduous uphill hiking, camping in multiple weather conditions varying from warm to wet to frigid to windy. But the main problems to contend with will be altitude, low temperatures and high winds. Lets go back to that altitude bit: every climber will experience the affects of altitude in some way, hopefully only shortage of breath and headaches, but for some, all sorts of nasty acronyms that I don’t really want to think about. Between now and the climb in July, I will be preparing for the fitness and stamina challenge this expedition will present.

Knowing that it will be making a difference in helping to eradicate some forms of cancer is enough for this middle-aged father of three to make the trek. For those of my friends that have battled cancer – your courage, fortitude and mental strength have been an inspiration to me and to many others.

To my supporters: I welcome any contribution, large or small, that you can make – every bit counts and it will motivate me to know that you are helping.

Thank you for your contribution!

Kumud

ps. Please note that funds raised are going to the Cure Cancer Australia Foundation and you are donating in Australian dollars!

Please also note that if you choose to donate anonymously, not only will your name not be shown below, but I also won't be notified of who you are!