Fundraising

Kilimanjaro Trek Raises £63,000 for Starlight

In January 2025, a team of dedicated Starlight supporters took on the ultimate challenge, trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, to raise vital funds for seriously ill children.  

The group, known as Team ThisWayUp, brought together friends and family to complete the seven-day Kilimanjaro trek, facing extreme conditions, varied terrain, and high-altitude challenges along the way. Their journey culminated in a powerful summit climb, reaching 5,895 metres after a gruelling seven-hour ascent in the dark.  

Battling altitude sickness, exhaustion, and freezing temperatures, the team showed incredible resilience and determination, ultimately reaching the summit with the support and encouragement of their experienced guides.  

£63,000 raised to support children in hospital 

The trek, expertly organised by True Summit Adventures, raised an incredible £63,000 for Starlight. This total includes a generous contribution from the tour company, highlighting the impact of strong partnership working.  

These funds will help Starlight continue its mission to improve the healthcare experience for children and young people across the UK, bringing play, joy, and emotional support to those who need it most. 

A legacy of challenge and commitment 

Team ThisWayUp are no strangers to ambitious fundraising. Building on their previous endurance challenge, an Atlantic rowing expedition in 2022, the group once again pushed their limits to support Starlight’s work.  

Their continued commitment demonstrates the powerful difference that dedicated supporters can make.  

Thank you to our incredible trekkers  

We extend a huge thank you to every member of Team ThisWayUp for their determination, fundraising efforts, and unwavering support.  

Your achievement is nothing short of extraordinary, and your impact will be felt by children and families across the UK. 

Take on a challenge