Sintons Virtual Kilimanjaro Climb

Neurotrauma specialists at Sintons are throwing their weight behind a campaign to empower people with spinal cord injury by committing to climb the equivalent height of Mount Kilimanjaro to raise vital funds for charity. 

The Martin’s Mountain challenge is inspired by Martin Hibbert, who was left paralysed through spinal cord injury sustained in the terrorist attack on Manchester Arena, and is now dedicating himself to raising £1million for the Spinal Injuries Association.

His latest fundraising initiative revolves around ‘My 19’ in recognition of his intention to climb Mount Kilimanjaro – which stands at 19,308ft tall – in June, and encouraging supporters to complete an activity themed around the number 19.

To back his cause, a nine-person team from Sintons – Alastair Elliot, Hannah Fitzpatrick, Sarah Askew, Charlotte Gunn, Andrew McGowan, Kate Oliver, Mark Quigley, Emma Redhead and Nicki Waugh – are set to climb the equivalent height of Kilimanjaro in June, to help raise vital funds to support people living with paralysis.

Martin has spoken of his desire to shift the emphasis from him being a victim of the bombing onto the ability of disabled people, particularly in a Paralympic year.

And as a team well used to supporting people with life-changing spinal cord and brain injuries, Sintons’ Neurotrauma team are only too keen to lend their backing to the My 19 campaign.

“We see all too often the effects of paralysis on the lives of individuals and their families. It can be utterly devastating but it is absolutely possible to rebuild from there and lead a fulfilling life after spinal cord injury – the positivity with which Martin is doing so is wholly inspiring,” says Andrew McGowan, head of Neurotrauma.

“We are very pleased to be able to support his My 19 campaign by collectively climbing over 19,000ft, which is a big undertaking, but one we are keen to aspire to. Shining a light on paralysis and what is possible is hugely important, as is raising funds for the Spinal Injuries Association, an organisation we know well and whose support we have seen benefit many of our clients greatly.

“We look forward to playing our role in this challenge and helping Martin to come closer to his £1million milestone.”

To sponsor the team, click here.