Our fundraising heroes headed to France for some unique (and adrenaline filled) challenges in September.
A Mont Blanc mission
Father and son duo Hugh and Eddie embarked on a daring fundraising challenge in September: to climb Mont Blanc and paraglide from the summit. Hugh, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2023, had previously attempted to climb and paraglide from Mont Blanc back in 2004 but had to postpone the challenge due to bad weather. So, following his diagnosis, he decided to reattempt the feat and raise funds in the process.
Hugh and Eddie spent months planning and training for the challenge, including hiking up Scafell Pike in Cumbria. When some good weather was forecast the duo headed to Chamonix in France where, on the day of the challenge, they had to set off at 4am in order to undertake the five hour climb to the summit of Mont Blanc. At the top, the weather continued to be on their side and when the clouds parted, they paraglided from the top. With this incredible challenge the pair have managed to raise over £29,000 in support of our vital Parkinson’s research – thank you, Hugh and Eddie!
Hugh and Eddie on Mont Blanc:
From London to Paris
Meanwhile, Fiona and Simon chose to cycle 350 miles from London to Paris! The challenge took them on a four day adventure, with the pair cycling through rain, hail and 20mph headwinds to reach the French capital.
They decided to raise funds for us with this challenge as Fiona was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and have raised an incredible £5,400. Congratulations, Fiona and Simon!
Nominate a fundraising hero for our annual award
Help us celebrate an exceptional fundraiser who has gone above and beyond to raise funds and awareness for us by nominating them for our annual Fundraiser of the Year award! The winner will be announced on World Parkinson’s Day next year (11 April 2025).
