An incredible achievement taking in Nepal's stunning Himalayan landscape
A dedicated supporter of MND Scotland has recently trekked to Everest Base Camp, raising £3,724 for families affected by motor neuron disease in the process.
Kelly Huxtable, 51, from South Ayrshire, undertook the adventure in December 2024 in memory of her friend, Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Casagranda, who bravely fought against motor neuron disease (MND), and to help raise important funds for the charity.
The trek, which took Kelly and her group through Nepal's stunning Himalayan landscape, was an unforgettable test of physical endurance and mental determination.
Starting at 2,860 meters, the group battled extreme conditions and gradually ascended over nine challenging days to reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters.
The final push to Base Camp, a tough 9-hour day, was made even more difficult by cold temperatures that plummeted to -22°C outside, and -15°C inside their accommodation.
Kelly described the terrain as both breathtaking and treacherous. "The terrain included lots of large boulders and cliff edges which were ok, until the ice covered some of it, making it harder to pass," she said. "But the most challenging part was the cold. We had to wear a lot of layers, which restricted our ability to trek and climb efficiently."
Despite the harsh conditions, Kelly was grateful for the support of her guides and porters, who ensured the safety and wellbeing of the team throughout the journey: "Our guide and porters were amazing, keeping us safe and well-informed every step of the way," Kelly said.
The group spent their nights in basic tea houses, where the main cooking area provided warmth and freshly prepared meals: "It was -15°C in our bedrooms at night, but the warmth of the tea house kept us going," Kelly added. "After reaching Base Camp on the final day, we spent about an hour there before embarking on the 3.5hour trek back, exhausted but proud. We then travelled back to Kathmandu Lukla the next day for the best shower in the world!
This adventure not only pushed Kelly to her physical limits but also raised vital funds. MND Scotland is grateful for Kelly's dedication to supporting those affected by motor neuron disease, a cause that remains close to her heart. The money raised will go towards funding vital services, research, and support for people affected by MND across Scotland.
Jonathan Mitchell, head of fundraising for MND Scotland, said: “We are so thankful for Kelly’s extraordinary effort and the funds she has raised for MND Scotland. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a truly remarkable feat, and her determination to support those living with MND is inspiring.
"Kelly’s incredible achievement highlights the lengths people will go to in support of others and helps make time count for those affected by this brutal disease”.
