TyneMet Sport Development Officer completes a solo summit of Ben Nevis…on her stairs at home.
While most of us were indulging in chocolate Easter eggs and hot cross buns on Good Friday, our Sport Development Officer, Hannah Marshall accomplished a solo summit of Ben Nevis in aid of NHS Charities Together.
This wasn’t just any solo summit, while the nation is in lockdown, Hannah completed the climb on her staircase at home in Darlington. To match the height of Ben Nevis, Hannah climbed 1,345m up and down her staircase at home. After measuring her stairs at 17cm in height and with a total of 18 stairs, this meant she needed to climb a total of 440 stairs. Hannah said:
I wanted to show students and staff that you can still find new ways to stay active at home, whilst showing my appreciation for our amazing NHS and help raise vital funds for those who are doing an incredible job under unprecedented and unimaginable circumstances.
Hannah completed her challenge in a total of three hours 45 minutes. Her aim was to raise £1,345, £1 for every metre, however she has now exceeded her fundraising target and to date, has raised over £3,000 which will go towards supporting the NHS and the Urgent COVID-19 appeal. With the challenge being live streamed on Facebook, it attracted a global audience as people from Australia and Zambia tuned in to watch Hannah accomplish her mission. Hannah comments:
The support and comments from people in Newcastle, North Tyneside, Darlington and all over the world definitely pushed me on and kept my spirits really high! My legs started shaking after about 100 flights, but I was determined to get it done in under 4 hours and only took a few minutes to rest in total! I’ve had letters posted through my door from people who are health workers or have a close family member that has been affected so the support has been incredible!
As part of Hannah’s mission to support communities during these challenging times, Hannah also has a weekly ‘Wellbeing Wednesday’ feature on the TyneMet College Facebook and Twitter pages. The weekly fixture focuses on calming and relaxing yoga sessions to encourage everyone to look after their mind and body and bring some positivity and light during the uncertain times we’re all facing.