I am on top of the world right now, following the completion of a grueling trek up Mount Everest Base Camp and traversing what are called the Three High Passes.
As the 65-year-old owner and operator of 21 hotels across the United Kingdom, including branded properties under IHG Hotels & Resorts, Hilton, Best Western, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Accor, I have returned to Starboard’s base camp in Beaconsfield, England, after completing this epic journey and, thanks for friends and colleagues, I have raised more than £40,000 for charity in the process.
For my age, I feel sprightly, so I joined a team of 10 other hardy souls and embarked on a 16-day trek to Base Camp and the three passes in the Himalayas, climbing to over 18,000 feet.
You might ask yourself, why did I do this once-in-a-lifetime challenge?
This could have simply been a nice birthday present to myself, but rather than doing this just for the challenge, I decided to use the opportunity to raise funds for a well-deserved cause to help young people in need.
I took on this challenge to raise money for Cameron’s Companions, a charity dedicated to helping young people who are struggling with their mental health.
We lose too many youngsters who take their own lives when sometimes all they need is to talk to the right person and to be listened to.
Cameron’s Companions is dedicated to providing a helpful “listening ear” for young people who want to get help but don’t know where to turn.
Speaking about this incredible journey, it was simply the most amazing journey ever.
It was challenging, with the descent being particularly tough, and while it was not the first time I have pushed myself to the limit, I’m not getting any younger.
I last ran a marathon for charity at 50, so thought I would really give it a go and test my fitness and resolve to the maximum. Trekking to Everest Base Camp appeared to fit the bill. Throughout the trip, I was focusing not only on the challenge to reach base camp but on the charity and what it means for young people who very often fight their own secret battles, their own arduous treks.
As for the experience, it was memorable.
The scenery was spectacular, and the camaraderie was wonderful.
I have already exceeded my £30,000 target by £10,000, and I thank in anticipation the generosity and support of my family, friends and colleagues in the hospitality world.
Thank you to the nearly 300 people who have donated and helped me. If you would like to join them, I thank you in anticipation.
Paul Callingham is founder and managing director of Beaconsfield, England owner-operator Starboard Hotels.
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