A brave Weoley Castle resident will be crawling up Wales’ highest peak this October to raise money for a local charity.
Michael Carruthers will be taking on Mount Snowdon on his hands and knees to help raise vital funds for Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice – and this isn’t his first time.
The father of two previously crawled up the 3,560ft mountain last year but wanted to take on the challenge again in memory of his late mother, Mary.
Mary was cared for at the Inpatient Unit at Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice, which provides crucial support to individuals and families living with terminal illness.
Michael said: “I know first-hand how amazing the care and support Birmingham St Mary’s provides. During Mom’s final months, some of our happiest times were spent at the Hospice. We loved sitting together in the garden and picking fresh lavender, as well as seeing the dogs and donkeys which are part of the Hospice’s animal therapy programme.
“Seeing the support that Birmingham St Mary’s gave to Mom and our family, I knew I wanted to give something back. I teach Thai boxing and love my fitness, so I wanted to take on a challenge that would push my limits.”
Michael will be crawling the Llanberis Path – the longest route to Snowdon’s summit – from Monday 27 to Wednesday 29 October. The nine mile course will take the average walker six hours to complete but will take Michael approximately two to three days to crawl.
The 41-year-old added: “My Mom was a fighter and it’s her strength that has inspired me to do this challenge. When I crawled up Snowdon last year it was tough, but knowing that I was doing it for a good cause made it all worthwhile.”
Charlotte Dowling, community fundraising manager at Birmingham St Mary’s, said: “Michael’s strength and determination is inspiring and we are incredibly grateful for his continued support.
“All of our services are free of charge – whether that’s at the Hospice, in people’s homes or in the local community – and so we rely on the generosity of local people to keep us going. I’d like to thank Michael for all his help and wish him the very best of luck with this challenge.”
If you would like to support Michael and Birmingham St Mary’s, why not donate to his Just Giving page.
