Kent Electricity Worker Embarks on Everest Trek for Cancer Charities
A dedicated electricity worker from Biddenden, Kent, is gearing up for the most formidable challenge of his lifetime. Michael Kidd, a 41-year-old former Royal Marines Commando, will undertake a high-altitude trek to Everest Base Camp in March 2027, aiming to raise vital funds for cancer charities in memory of family members lost to the disease.
Honouring Family Through Extreme Adventure
As a warehouse distribution centre supervisor for UK Power Networks in Maidstone, Michael is no stranger to hard work, but this expedition pushes personal boundaries. He has pledged to raise £2,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support and Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) Charity, driven by personal loss. "Having lost family members to cancer, I’ve promised to use any charity event to help the incredible teams that make life bearable for those suffering," Michael explained. "Most of us know someone that has been affected by cancer, and any money I can raise will help others."
The Challenge Ahead: A Trek Through Sagarmatha National Park
The journey will take Michael through the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park, involving crossing suspension bridges, navigating mountain passes, and acclimatising in Sherpa villages. The destination, Everest Base Camp, sits at a staggering 5,364 metres above sea level. While Michael has previously completed Macmillan Mighty Hikes in the UK, he considers this trek "the biggest, hardest and most rewarding" challenge he has ever faced.
Preparation and Community Support
To prepare, Michael will embark on training hikes throughout this year in Wales and Scotland. He is calling on colleagues from the power sector, fellow armed forces veterans, and the local community to support his fundraising efforts. Becky Turner-Knowles from Macmillan Cancer Support praised his commitment, stating, "We’re incredibly grateful to Michael for taking on such an extraordinary challenge. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is no small feat, and the commitment, determination and generosity he’s shown by funding the trip himself so that every penny raised goes to charity is truly inspiring."
Donation pages have been established for both GOSH Charity and Macmillan Cancer Support, enabling supporters to contribute directly to these causes. Michael added, "It will push my boundaries and give me a big sense of achievement. I have completed other charity challenges, but this would be the hardest of my life and a once in a lifetime opportunity."
