Lanarkshire siblings heading to Nepal on trip of a lifetime to Everest Base Camp

Lanarkshire Siblings Embark on Journey to Nepal to Reach Everest Base Camp

Julie and Archie MacConnell, originally from the Whitehill area of Hamilton, are gearing up for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as they set their sights on trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. The siblings are undertaking this challenging expedition early next month with the goal of raising funds for Leukaemia Care, a cause close to their hearts as their father, Archie Snr, and grandfather, Matthew Millar, both lost their lives to the blood cancer.

The idea of embarking on this incredible journey stemmed from a serendipitous encounter during a trip to the Grand National in Liverpool. Following a chance meeting with a man from Nepal, Julie and Archie expressed their desire to visit the country and conquer the iconic Everest. This chance conversation sparked the beginning of their ambitious fundraising trek.

Julie, a retired police officer now residing in Ayr, and Archie, an IT specialist based in Larkhall, have been diligently preparing for the physical demands of the trek. Despite previously organising a charity event in Hamilton, the leap from fundraising at home to trekking in Nepal is a significant one for the siblings. Their training regime includes long walks around Strathclyde Park and scaling Tinto Hill to push their physical limits in readiness for the challenging terrain at high altitudes.

With emotions running high, Julie admits to feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness as the trip draws near. The siblings are entirely self-funding their expedition to Nepal, ensuring that every penny raised goes directly to Leukaemia Care. So far, they have raised nearly £2500 for the charity, dedicated to providing vital support and resources to individuals affected by leukaemia.

Reflecting on their personal experience with the impact of leukaemia within their family, Julie explains that both her father and grandfather succumbed to the disease, leaving a lasting impression on their lives. By embarking on this trek, Julie and Archie aim to honour their loved ones while supporting the ongoing battle against leukaemia.

Despite the physical and mental challenges that lie ahead, the siblings remain resolute in their commitment to the cause. Recognising the immense struggles faced by cancer patients and their families, Julie and Archie are determined to push themselves to the limit during their trek, keeping in mind the greater purpose behind their journey.

To support Julie and Archie’s fundraising efforts for Leukaemia Care, donations can be made through their fundraising page at https://www.justgiving.com/page/everestbasecampcharitytrek

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In summary, the article highlights the inspiring journey of Lanarkshire siblings, Julie and Archie MacConnell, as they prepare to trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal to raise funds for Leukaemia Care. Motivated by personal loss and a spirit of adventure, the siblings are dedicated to making a difference by challenging themselves physically and supporting a cause close to their hearts. Their self-funded expedition embodies courage, compassion, and a deep-seated commitment to fighting against leukaemia.