Fundraiser Gareth Price will climb 10,000 meters in six days in order to raise funds for Our Bolton NHS Charity.
Gareth will take part in a sponsored bike ride throughout the Italian Alps and Dolomites to raise money for Bolton NHS Foundation Trust’s Maternity Services.
It is in recognition of the care both he and his partner received from maternity colleagues during and after the birth of their daughter at Royal Bolton Hospital in 2018.
Speaking ahead of the challenge, Gareth said:
If we can pair the incredible views at the top of a mountain with some useful fundraising, then I think that’s a great use of our time.
“I fell just short of completing a similar challenge in France, so I plan to train even harder, for longer to complete this epic challenge in just six days.
Funds raised by Gareth could contribute towards parent education and mental health resources so community midwives can run support and social groups for mums-to-be and new mums who are struggling with feelings of isolation and anxiety.
The money could also help transform outdoor spaces at the hospital for staff and patients or to invest in items such as breast pumps and comfortable, reclining chairs to help mothers feed and bond with their baby.
Sarah Skinner, Charity Manager at Our Bolton NHS Charity, said:
Our role is to fund the things that are over and above what the NHS is expected to provide, such as improving the environment for patients so waiting rooms are calming, inviting and feel less clinical.
“The help given to our maternity services through Gareth’s sponsorship money will support future mothers, fathers and their babies.
“We would like to thank Gareth for his continued support of our incredible staff and the work they do to care for the people of Bolton and beyond.
You can support Gareth on his fundraiser for Our Bolton NHS Charity by visiting his JustGiving page.