A Bath couple has taken on a mammoth challenge to raise vital funds for Julian House’s services during the coronavirus crisis, climbing up and down the height of Mount Everest on their staircase.
From Friday 17th April to Sunday 19th, Matt Emeny, 27, and Tilley Sheridan, 26, scaled the stairs of their flat block in Bath 528 times, walking six hours a day.
This equated to a total of 8,848m up the stairs and 8,848m back down – the equivalent of the tallest mountain in the world.
With an initial fundraising target of £200, they were blown away by donations from friends and family who helped them reach over £1,200 for the charity.
After word spread about their incredible feat, the donations are rising, and the couple are hoping to smash their new target of £2000 for Julian House.
Speaking of what inspired them to do the climb, Tilley said: “We are quite active and adventurous people and during this time of lockdown we have been setting our own challenges to keep us moving.
“Matt has always dreamt of climbing Mt Everest, but, the expense and the dangers, has meant this has never happened.
“We saw that someone had set themselves this challenge and thought it was great way for us to raise some money for an amazing charity whilst also doing something we’ve always wanted to do from the ‘comfort’ of our own home!”
Jess Gay, Senior Community & Events Fundraiser at Julian House added: “This is an amazing achievement and a huge well done to Tilley and Matt for not only completing it but also raising an incredible sum for Julian House.
“Due to the Coronavirus, the cancellation/postponement of our fundraising events and the closure of all our charity shops and bike shops, has meant we’ve predicted an income loss of at least £200,000.
“The money Tilley and Matt have and continue to raise will be used to fund our services, like our hostel, domestic abuse refuge and outreach, so we can continue supporting very vulnerable people at this difficult time.
“They’ve both proved what can be achieved at home, and I’m sure their challenge will be an inspiration to many.”
You can help Matt and Tilley reach their £2000 target by donating here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/matt-and-tilley-climb-everest-on-their-stairs.
You can find the latest coronavirus information, advice and community updates for the Bath & North East Somerset area on our dedicated live blog here.
