On top of Africa

On 17 July, after a year of hard training and fundraising, I set off on the challenge of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania—at 19,341ft the world’s tallest freestanding mountain—on behalf of Aspire (Spinal Injuries) Charity. Our diverse group of 19 trekkers met for the first time at Heathrow Airport.

During the transfer from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro we had our first sighting of the mountain. In fact we were flying below the summit. It was awe inspiring and spectacular at the same time.

At the base gate, Nalemoru, we met our 10 guides along with over 40 porters who were to carry everything for us. This was it. It was real and we were on the mountain, ready to ascend. It was 'pole, pole’ (Swahili for ‘slowly slowly’) right from the start, even when we felt we were able to go much faster.

Our ascent over six days took us through varied terrain. Each day was tougher than the previous one. It was easy to become breathless, especially when drinking. From Day 2 people were feeling the effects of altitude sickness, some cases being so serious they were escorted off the mountain.

On the sixth day we trekked across the deserted Kibo saddle, passing a plane crash site, and heading for the last camp. We had a limited amount of rest before setting off for the summit at midnight. It was freezing cold and pitch black. Above us we could see tiny trails of head torches lining the zigzag path up the almost vertical mountainside. It was incredibly hard, both physically and mentally. After 6 hours the sun began to rise, lifting our spirits as we continued for another 3½ hours. Then, finally, I had made it to the top of Africa. I had conquered Kili! I was elated and relieved; only 12 of the trekkers made it to the summit.

It took just 1½ days to return to base, where we were very ready for a celebratory drink and a hot shower.

I raised £4,500 for my charity and am still collecting sponsorship. If you would like to contribute please visit www.justgiving.com/lyndiebobstrek. Lyndsey Cochrane