A man from Loughborough is embarking on an extraordinary challenge to climb six of the world's highest peaks within 12 months, all in aid of Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.
The Challenge
Steve Pearson, aged 53, has set himself the goal of ascending over 70,000 feet in total over the course of a year. A builder by trade, Steve has always harbored a deep passion for climbing and trekking and decided to channel this enthusiasm into raising funds for a local charity close to his heart.
“I have a friend who works at Rainbows and couldn’t think of a better cause,” Steve explained. “I feel I am lucky to be healthy and I will do whatever I can to help those who are less fortunate. Rainbows is such an incredible place and the work it provides at the hospice and in the community is just amazing.”
Progress So Far
Steve kicked off his challenge at the end of 2025 by conquering the UK Three Peaks – Scafell, Snowdon, and Ben Nevis – in bitterly cold conditions within 24 hours. In February, he reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. “I absolutely loved it, it was right up my street,” said Steve. “I did get a bit poorly with altitude sickness just before we did the final summit, but everyone I was with was awesome.”
Upcoming Climbs
This summer, Steve plans to climb two peaks in the Swiss Alps, totaling 5,000 metres. In September, he will attempt Mera Peak, the highest permitted trekking peak in Nepal, which requires the use of crampons and ice axes. His final challenge will be Mount Toubkal in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, the highest peak in North Africa. Steve had originally embarked on this trip in January, but an avalanche forced its cancellation.
Reflecting on his motivations, Steve added: “I love these challenges, even when I was feeling ill on Kilimanjaro, there was no way I would give up. Knowing that every step I take on these challenges raises funds to help babies, children and young people at Rainbows gives me impetus and drive.”
Charity Support
Gary Farnfield, Rainbows Community Fundraising Manager, expressed gratitude for Steve’s efforts: “Steve has set himself such a tough collection of challenges, and we are grateful for his support. We wish him the best of luck with the rest of his treks and look forward to hearing all about them. It is only with the support of our fundraisers like Steve that we are able to provide specialist palliative and end of life care to hundreds of babies, children and young people.”
To support Steve, visit his JustGiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/page/stevepearson.
