Dundee University Students Reach Their Peaks For Charity

Charity Climb For CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland)

5 August 2021

A group of students from Dundee University have trekked 25 miles and climbed over 5,200 feet to summit the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales back-to-back to raise over £14,000 for CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland).

The three-peak challenge, one of Britain’s toughest outdoor feats, saw the teams scale Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in under 48 hours.

In a harsh test of physical and mental strength the team of 14 students, supported by DUSA – Dundee University Students’ Association, faced challenges including sleep deprivation, long travelling times between the peaks and heat exhaustion when they took on the challenge in July.

Group leaders, students Katie Macdonnell and Grace Callaghan, were in charge of navigating the team to each summit.  Aislinn Borland, one of the participants, said,

‘‘The three peaks challenge was an incredible experience.  Raising money for such an incredible charity was very fulfilling and completing the peaks was equally challenging and enjoyable.’’

Grace added,

‘‘We knew it was going to be tough but I don’t think any of us realised just how challenging it would be.  However, knowing what a difference the money we raised would make to the families who rely on CHAS helped to get us through and it’s amazing to think of the difference our 24 hours of pain will make.”

Fiona Leslie, Community Fundraiser for CHAS, said,

‘‘To put this in context, it costs £1000 per week to keep one of our hospices filled with food and to put on meals for all the families staying with us.  It costs £5,650 to run Rachel House for just one day – so Dundee University students have covered almost 3 days of care which is incredible!’’

Megan-Rose Birdsall, Vice President of Fundraising at DUSA, added,

“This was an incredibly difficult feat and everyone at DUSA is extremely proud of the team for taking it on and raising so much money for a fantastic charity which we know will make a huge difference to the families the charity helps.”

CHAS offer a full family support service for babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions. This includes palliative care, family respite and support – through their hospices, homecare services and hospital presence.