Spean Bridge resident climbs Kilimanjaro to raise vital funds for dementia research

After eight difficult weeks in hospital, their father is now settled in a nursing home close to the family home in Nottinghamshire.

Despite the emotional toll, Kim and Dani made the decision to continue with their climb, dedicating every step to their Dad and every family living with dementia.

"It wasn’t just about reaching the top of a mountain," added Dani.

"It was about doing something meaningful and raising money for research."

Not only did they achieve their dream but the siblings, who both enjoy hiking, managed to complete the eight-day climb they signed up for in seven days.

"We did both succumb to the effects of altitude which made the night summit climb particularly gruelling," said Dani.

"But we summited on January 21 at 06.50 and it was a very emotional moment for us both."

Led by Team Kilimanjaro Dani and Kim were part of a group of 15 which included a chief guide, an assistant guide, a chef and 10 porters.

"It was the best thing we have ever done and we are absolutely delighted with the amount we have raised so far for Alzheimer’s Research UK, a staggering £8,402," she added.

Born and raised in Nottinghamshire, Dani moved to Spean Bridge in 2019 where, along with husband Cameron, she bought Distant Hills Guest House.

In 2022 the couple appeared on the popular Channel 4 series Four in a Bed and won the competition. They also run their own walking holidays in the Lochaber area. Kim lives in Bury while brother Oliver is in Derby.

"When dad took a turn for the worse in August/September we had to make several journeys up and down the country to keep visiting our parents to help them out," continued Dani.

"This was challenging as we all work full-time and it’s a 16 hour round trip for me. It was a tough time but it’s what you do for your family.

"Dad was getting increasingly agitated as he no longer recognised our mum, then it was his own house he failed to recognise. He was beginning to fall more and was becoming increasingly immobile.

"In September he was taken to hospital after a particularly agitated episode at home. He stayed at hospital in Mansfield for eight weeks before moving to a nursing home. It was a very distressing time."

One in two people in the UK will be directly impacted by dementia in their lifetime, either by developing the condition themselves or caring for a loved one. 

Simon McDermott from Alzheimer’s Research UK said: “Dani and Kim’s climb is a remarkable example of turning personal heartbreak into hope.

"We can’t thank them enough for completing this epic challenge to raise funds in support of our work to find new treatments, preventions and one day, a cure."

You can still donate to the fundraiser at www.justgiving.com/page/kimanddanidokili.