“It won’t be that cold.” “You’ll be able to get warm.” “I’m sure you can get a lift if you get tired.” “Have fun and enjoy.”
These were just some of the words of encouragement Holly and Gareth received before heading off to the Arctic for their fundraising challenge. Little did they know what lay ahead…
Laura accompanied them on the journey, offering moral support and providing supporters with daily live-action video updates.
Holly and Gareth took on the icy expedition armed with ice bikes, skis, months of UK-based training, and what can only be described as optimistic expectations of what “a bit chilly” might mean. What followed was a true test of endurance, with sub-zero temperatures, biting winds, and relentless fresh snow determined to make the challenge even tougher.
The pair spent days trekking across frozen terrain, often questioning why they had put themselves through it. “There were moments where even talking felt like effort,” Gareth admitted. “But stopping was never an option.”
What kept them moving forward was the cause behind the challenge. Fundraising for the John King Brain Tumour Foundation in memory of their beloved dad, they were driven by the impact their efforts could make for families affected by brain tumours.
Sadly, Holly was injured at the end of day two. After a bad fall, Holly is now wearing a brace on her knee after tearing her LCL, ACL and MCL and is awaiting news of an operation. Although she was unable to complete the final day in full, she remained with Laura to cheer Gareth on as he crossed the finish line.
Laura’s daily videos allowed supporters to follow the journey closely, sending messages of encouragement, and donations, which steadily climbed throughout the expedition. By the time they reached the final stretch, Holly and Gareth had surpassed an extraordinary £40,000.
The money raised will help renovate the kitchen and playroom on the paediatric ward at St George’s Hospital. These spaces are worn, broken and in desperate need of care, yet they’re meant to offer comfort, distraction and moments of normality for children and families during the hardest time of their lives. “Seeing that total was surreal,” Holly said. “It will make such a difference and made every difficult step feel worthwhile.”
Holly and Gareth have proven that even the coldest place on Earth cannot freeze determination (or a good sense of humour) as they completed a gruelling Arctic challenge and raised more than £40,000 for the John King Brain Tumour Foundation.
Now safely back from the Arctic, Holly reflected on the experience: “It was incredibly tough, but also incredibly rewarding. Though next time, we’ll choose a challenge somewhere slightly warmer!”
There is still time to donate, please head to our Just Giving Page here.
Thank you!
