Brentwood Teenager Scales Kilimanjaro for Hospice, Raises £20,000 After Medical Emergency
A determined teenager from Brentwood has successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the world's tallest free-standing mountain, in a heartfelt tribute to his late grandmother. Finley Perry, aged just 14, undertook the challenging expedition to raise funds for Havens Hospices, the charity that cared for his nan, Janice, during her final months battling cancer.
Young Climber's Remarkable Achievement
Finley, a Year 10 pupil at Becket Keys Church of England School, is believed to be one of the youngest climbers from the region to conquer Africa's highest peak. Statistics show that only about one percent of those attempting the climb are under 20 years old, making his accomplishment particularly notable. He reached the summit in December as part of a team expedition that included his father, Alan Perry of Blueprint Property Group, along with several business leaders.
The combined fundraising effort generated more than £100,000 for various charities, with Finley's personal contribution reaching nearly £20,000 specifically for Havens Hospices. Fellow climbers praised the teenager's unwavering determination and positive attitude throughout the grueling journey, noting that he rarely complained despite facing difficult conditions and long days trekking at high altitude.
Dangerous Descent and Recovery
The expedition took a frightening turn during the descent when Finley became seriously ill from altitude sickness. His oxygen levels dropped below 40 percent, and he was diagnosed with high-altitude cerebral oedema at Barafu Camp. After receiving initial oxygen treatment on the mountain, his condition failed to improve, necessitating an emergency helicopter evacuation to a hospital for further care.
"Unfortunately, on the way down I became very unwell and disorientated," Finley recalled. "Because I'm still young, my lungs aren't fully developed and I struggled to get enough oxygen into my body. I'm now fully recovered, although it was a very scary experience for my dad and the rest of the team."
Despite the medical emergency, Finley described the climb as one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of his life. His father, Alan, who accompanied him on the expedition, expressed admiration for his son's resilience, suggesting that witnessing his grandmother's suffering had given Finley perspective during his own ordeal.
Inspiring Fundraising Mission
On his fundraising page, Finley explained the emotional motivation behind his climb: "I'm doing this in memory of my nan, Janice Perry, who bravely fought cancer. During her final months she was cared for by the incredible team at Havens Hospices, who provided comfort, dignity and support to her and our whole family. This climb is my way of giving back and honouring her strength."
The fundraising climb was organized by senior figures from two prominent UK international food businesses. Suki Dulai, CEO of Flying Trade Group, raised over £45,000 for World Food Aid, while Paresh Mehta, CEO of KTC Food Group, raised more than £46,000 for the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation.
Both leaders emphasized the physical and mental demands of the challenge, noting that the knowledge they were raising funds for important causes provided crucial motivation. The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation was established in memory of 15-year-old Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, whose death from an allergic reaction led to Natasha's Law requiring full ingredient labeling on pre-packed food made on site.
Finley's story serves as a powerful testament to youth determination, family tribute, and community support through charitable giving.
