Thomas's one box to Everest challenge raises over £5,000 for Trust staff

Posted: 22 May 2020

Thomas Hearn climbed the equivalent height of Mount Everest (29,029 feet) by stepping up and off a 24 inch box. His achievement raised over £5,000 for frontline BHT staff working in COVID-19 areas.

The challenge was completed in just over 22 hours over the 8 and 9 May with Thomas’s box step-ups totalling an impressive 14,515. Part of the way through his challenge Thomas received a motivational call from Kenton Cool, a climbing hero of his who has summited Everest 14 times.

Having battled with Crohn’s disease and colitis for 15 years this challenge was Thomas’ way of saying ‘thank you’ to NHS teams who have not only helped to save his life but also that of his brother. The money raised will support frontline BHT staff who are risking their lives to help those who need it most.

Thomas said: “The NHS has had a huge impact on my life personally and also the lives on many family members over the past few years, supporting us through many health struggles.  A few years ago, a challenge like this would have been unimaginable, but thanks to the incredible work and care from the NHS I am healthier and fitter than ever and able to tackle challenges such as my ‘one box to Everest’. It’s a small undertaking in comparison to what the NHS staff face daily during these unprecedented times, but I’m so grateful to be in a position to help raise money to support these amazing people.”

Trust chief executive Neil Macdonald said: “It’s inspirational to see Thomas complete this challenge and that he doesn’t let his health conditions hold him back. Thank you to Thomas and those who have supported him, we really appreciate you fundraising for our staff.”

Thomas's JustGiving page:

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/thomashearn2020