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13-year-old accomplishes Everest challenge

Words by Smiley Team

For 13-year-old Leah-Mai Rimmington, there ain’t no mountain high enough to stop her from helping to protect dogs in need. Indeed, she was even willing to take on the tallest mountain in the world in support of her canine friends.

In May 2022, she completed a challenge of a lifetime, trekking 82 miles to Mount Everest Base Camp and raising £2,025 for Dogs Trust, a charity with a rehoming centre near her home town of Grantham.

She set off on the eight-day trek on 2 April, braving freezing temperatures and climbing steep, uneven slopes. 

Having reached her destination, she said: “It was an incredible and unforgettable adventure!”

Along the way, the thought of how she was helping dogs spurred her on. “During tough times during the hike I would remind myself of my motivations, of giving back to our society, both in Nepal and at home, and creating awareness for important causes, such as Dogs Trust, and showing our furry friends lots of love,” she said.

[Read more positive news about initiatives to support animal welfare, wildlife and nature]

Her cause was also a great motivator leading up to the challenge when she prepared by taking on mountains in the UK.

Often accompanied by her sprocker spaniels, Harley and Ralph, she climbed Scotland, England and Wales’s highest mountains – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon, as well as the Brecon Beacons and Helvellyn in the Lake District.

After raising thousands for dogs, she hopes her efforts will encourage others to fundraise for causes close to their hearts.

She said: “I hope it has inspired others to take on challenges of their own, and believe that regardless of age and ability, anyone can achieve something great – you just need to not overthink it, get out there and do it and don’t give up!”

Inspired to act?

DONATE: Support dogs which have been rescued or are in need of rehoming. Donate to Dogs Trust.

SUPPORT: Find out how you can help Dogs Trust to protect vulnerable or abandoned dogs, via their Get Involved page.

 

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