A local teenager is preparing to take on an extraordinary fundraising challenge as he gets ready to climb Mount Kilimanjaro this September in support of Rowcroft Hospice.
Andrew Morgan, 15, from Babbacombe, will tackle Africa's highest mountain alongside his parents, Louise and Dan, with the family aiming to raise £5,000 for the hospice. They are already halfway towards their target and are encouraging further support from the community.
The challenge holds deep personal significance for the family. Rowcroft's Hospice at Home Team cared for Andrew's grandmother, Joy Lawrence, during her final weeks in August 2022.
Andrew said the experience left a lasting impact, adding that the hospice team helped make a difficult time less frightening and allowed the family to say goodbye in their own way.
An experienced young walker, Andrew has already completed a number of demanding challenges, including the Three Peaks, West Highland Way and Ten Tors, as well as becoming the youngest recorded person to complete all of Dartmoor's tors. While confident in his fitness, he admits the altitude on Kilimanjaro will be his biggest test.
The family have been actively fundraising through a range of events, from long-distance hikes to community activities, to support Rowcroft's work caring for people with life-limiting illnesses across South Devon.
Donations can be made via the family's JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/page/louise-lawrence-123. For more information about Rowcroft Hospice and upcoming fundraising challenges, visit: www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk.
Location: Torquay, Devon
