It’s here. The moment I’ve been waiting for, preparing for, and dreaming of—back in Moshi, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, ready to take on this incredible challenge once again. The air here feels alive with possibilities, and there’s something about the towering presence of Kilimanjaro that stirs emotions I can’t quite put into words. Back at Springlands Hotel with so many of the same staff as last year – a great place to relax before the challenge ahead. The hotel is part of Zara Tanzania Adventures who coordinate not only trekking but also Safari and stays over on the beautiful island of Zanzibar where Freddie Mercury was born.

Springlands Hotel, Moshi

This isn’t just a mountain. It’s a symbol of resilience, strength, and freedom. For me, it’s deeply personal—a place that carries the weight of my story, my struggles, and my purpose. The “trip” has been arranged on behalf of Melanoma UK by Life Changing Challenges and British Expedition Company.

It’s been an incredible 2 days so far meeting up with the guides that supported me in the Kilimanjaro Challenge for Melanoma UK last year.

The past two days have been a whirlwind. Reuniting with the incredible guides who helped me last year has brought back a flood of memories from Kilimanjaro Challenge for Melanoma UK. Their kindness, strength, and unwavering encouragement made my first climb unforgettable. Now, as I prepare to ascend once more, the challenge feels even greater. This time, it’s not just about reaching the summit but doing so on a day of profound significance: Tanzania’s Independence Day.On December 9th, as the country commemorates its freedom with the lighting of the Uhuru Torch, I hope to stand at Uhuru Peak—Freedom Peak—beneath blue skies, surrounded by snow, and carry my own torch of hope.

But it won’t be easy. I know that.

The Marangu Route awaits, and so do the freezing -15°C temperatures. I’ll feel the sting of the altitude, the fatigue of the climb, and the raw emotion of being so close to something that means so much. And yet, I can already feel the determination and energy of those around me—the trekkers, the guides, the shared sense of purpose. Together, we’ll face whatever challenges the mountain throws our way.

And when I reach the summit, there will be a moment just for me—a deeply emotional moment to honor my parents. Last August, I scattered my mum’s ashes at Uhuru Peak. This year, I will bring my dad to her. Together, they’ll be forever free, forever together, in a place that embodies light, unity, and hope.

This climb is about so much more than me. It’s about raising awareness for skin cancer – a disease that has shaped my life and taken me to places I never imagined, both physically and emotionally. Since being diagnosed as Stage 4 in 2021, I’ve dedicated myself to this cause, using every platform I can to spread the message: skin cancer can be prevented, and awareness saves lives.