A WESTBURY resident is “taking on Everest” this month to raise money for Asthma UK.
Jon Street, who is a member of the Westbury Rotary Club, has until the end of the month to walk the equivalent distance of the Everest Base Camp trek – 81 miles – and has set a fundraising target of £200. However, the fundraiser is planning to go the extra mile, or three, for the charity.
“I actually aim to complete 85 miles inside 31 days,” explained Jon. “I’m trying to keep to around 3 miles a day which I’m tracking with Runkeeper. All this without the bonus of being at 5,000m above sea level!
“Three miles sounded like an easy goal in light of my past walking exploits, which includes the Everest Base Camp trek three years ago (although that didn’t end well) and many other long-distance walks including 32 miles in one day along the Dorset Jurassic Coast. But I couldn’t have been more wrong.
“The past year hasn’t been the easiest for many around Westbury, myself included. My asthma, dormant for decades, raised its wheezing head and has restricted my activities drastically, and Covid-19 hasn’t helped either by confining me indoors for long periods.
“Not that long ago I was having to rest after only climbing a small flight of stairs, let alone walking up to the White Horse.
“I had envisaged three miles a day to be a bit of a walk in the park, if you’ll excuse the pun. It’s actually been harder than I thought but achievable, which is the main thing. I update my progress every few days on my Facebook page (search for Jonathan Street). And I include screenshots of the running total and sometimes the routes that I take.
“I’m usually accompanied by Aubrey, our long-suffering Lurcher and sometimes by Julie my even more long-suffering wife. I’m often to be seen trudging up Long River Road towards the White Horse car park.
“So, I’m asking people to sponsor me for the January target of 85 miles. The proceeds go towards Asthma UK. If anyone can donate, then thank you! I’ve even sponsored myself.
“I have taken heed of the current restrictions on movement and social distancing introduced recently by the Government. I walk, for personal fitness and sanity, only once a day and adhere very strictly to social distancing at all times.”
To support and sponsor Jon, visit https://join.auk-blf.org.uk/fundraisers/jonathanstreet/everest
