Publish date: 15 September 2025
In August, consultant breast surgeon Mr Pardeep Arora and his team set out on the adventure of a lifetime: to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, in aid of the Breast Unit at Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust.
After eight days on the mountain – six days of climbing and two days descending – the team has now completed their extraordinary challenge. A party of eight climbers, supported by guides and porters, tackled gruelling conditions and steep terrain, reaching key milestones such as Shira Camp (3,510m) and the Barranco Wall before pressing towards the summit.
The climb was not without difficulty, and not every member of the group was able to complete the journey. Yet throughout, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience, courage, and solidarity. Following the ascent, they are now safely home after resting together in the Serengeti Safari Park, reflecting on what they have achieved both personally and for their patients.
So far, the challenge has raised £2,500 and counting to support the Breast Unit at Tameside Hospital. These funds will go directly towards enhancing services and facilities – from upgrading equipment to providing supportive resources that make a difficult time a little more comfortable for patients and their families.
Speaking after the climb, Mr Arora said,
“We are all well. There were some hiccups along the way. Not everyone could complete it. But this was a team effort, and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved together – both on the mountain and for our patients.”
Emily Whelan, Charity Manager at Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity, added “We’re thrilled that Mr Arora and the team have completed such a monumental challenge for Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity. Their dedication to improving patient care is inspiring, and we encourage our community to continue showing their support so the Breast Unit can keep making a difference for local people.”
Supporters can still donate to Mr Arora’s fundraising campaign via the team’s JustGiving page as the team strive to reach their target:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/mount-kilimanjaro-breastunit
