Published: Thursday, 20th December, 2007 09:30
Climbing to dizzy heights for charity
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AFTER witnessing the incredible bravery of one of her pupils, a former Tranent teacher has vowed to live life to the full – and improve the lives of others while she does so.
Candy Inglis, 33 will conquer the highest peak of Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro – standing at a breathtaking 19,340 ft – to raise money for charity Breast Cancer Campaign.
The former headteacher of Tranent Infant School decided to take on the climbing challenge after one of her pupils, Iona McMurdo, died on February 27 following a two-year battle with rare cancer, neuroblastoma.
A member of staff at the former infant school who was diagnosed with breast cancer and is now recovering from her illness, also inspired Candy to undertake the climb.
Candy, who grew up in Tranent and now owns Wee Scones Nursery in the town’s Haddington Road, will set off on her unforgettable journey on January 16.
She told the Courier: “I have spent the last 11 years working and while other people take career breaks to have children, I had never done that.
“Watching the way people reacted and dealt with their illnesses was so inspiring and it made me realise that life is too short.”
Together with other charity climbers, Candy will spend about eight days tackling Kilimanjaro, named after the Massai word for large rock.
In order to reach the Uhuru Peak – the highest point of the inactive volcano – the hiking group are expected to walk for 12-15 hours every day.
After three months of rigourous training, which included completing the West Highland Way in August, Candy is far more confident about undertaking the massive trek.
“I was far from fit at the time but completing 96 miles of the West Highland Way really helped to get me in shape,” she said.
“It will be a real experience and I’m very excited, although my mum Margaret has said she is quite anxious about me heading up there.”
The Tranent community councillor has also dedicated hours of her free time to fundraising to reach her target of £3,800, which will allow her to take part in the trek, organised by adventure company Charity Challenge.
Candy, who has lived in Edinburgh since 1996, hopes to raise an additional £5,000 for charity once she has achieved her entry fee.
“I’ve managed to raise £2,000 so far with various fundraisers and by selling baking to schools throughout Tranent,” she explained.
“Everyone has been very supportive and I’m confident that I will be able to manage £5,000. It is definitely for a good cause.”
To make a donation to Candy’s campaign visit www.justgiving.com/candyinglis.
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Honoured by Her Majesty