A TRIO of NHS workers are set to climb Africa’s tallest peak to raise money towards supporting Dorset hospitals.

Deben Harris, Fiona Sowerby and Judith May hope to raise £6,400 to enhance care for the community by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro this October. 

Deben is the lead respiratory physiologist at UHD and is taking part in the expedition in memory of his ‘adventurous’ dad, Lee who passed in November 2023 from Parkinson’s.

(Image: UHD) Speaking on the challenge, he said: “Deben said: “As I climb the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, I carry my dad's adventurous spirit, and his memory will empower me as I conquer new heights.

“Having witnessed my dad's battle with Parkinson's, I am proud to raise funds for the Parkinson's services at University Hospitals Dorset, supporting other individuals and their loved ones on their journey with the disease.

“Additionally, I'm honoured to fundraise for our hospitals' exceptional respiratory care where I've worked for nearly two decades and have witnessed first-hand the unwavering dedication this fantastic team has to the people of Dorset.”

Fiona who has worked with the NHS for almost 24 years, currently works for UHD as a management accountant.

(Image: UHD)

She is raising money for UHD’s palliative care services after losing family members to cancer, she said: “Supporting University Hospitals Dorset's palliative care is my way of giving back and making a difference to a service that has meant so much to my family.

“Losing loved ones to cancer showed me how vital palliative care is, providing comfort, dignity and support during such a difficult time.

“By raising funds for palliative care through University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity, I aim to enhance the service and bring peace and empathy to more families during life's most difficult moments.”

Judith has worked in the NHS for 36 years and is the director of operational performance and oversight at UHD.

She said: “Climbing Africa's highest mountain after 36 years in the NHS, I expect will be both challenging and rewarding in equal measures.

“This adventure is my way of giving back to the NHS and hospitals, which have been a big part of my life.

“I've seen first-hand how University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity enhances care across our local hospitals, making a real difference for patients and staff.

“By raising these funds, I'd like to take those services even further so we can keep making things better for everyone across Dorset in the future.”

Donations can be made via Fiona's JustGiving titled: 'Fiona's Fundraiser for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity', Judith's fundraiser titled: 'Judith's fundraiser for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity' and Deben's JustGiving titled: 'Climbing for a Cause: Deben's Kilimanjaro Adventure Supporting UHD's Parkinson's & Respiratory Services'.