“She’s summit special!” - Orkney Head Teacher conquers Ben Nevis and raises £3k for cancer charity

An Orkney Head Teacher, who gave herself a mountain to climb to raise cash for a cancer charity close to her heart, has successfully completed the challenge.

Papdale Primary School’s Wendy Bowen decided to aim high taking on the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, in memory of a dear friend she lost to pancreatic cancer.

“My friend, Catherine, was with me all the way. I spoke to her husband from the top, so that was quite emotional,” Wendy said following the epic endeavour yesterday, Wednesday. “I set off at 8am and arrived at the summit at 12.20pm. It was truly fantastic every step of the way! I was back down by 4pm and enjoyed a well-earned rest. I was accompanied by my guide Max at Hunter Mountaineering and Ben Nevis Guides who was incredible and made my day.

“In true Scottish style there was all the seasons in one day - some rain, some snow and a little sunshine. I felt all the training in Orkney had paid off and was well prepared. I really enjoyed all of it. The hardest part was the last hour as my legs were certainly tired and feeling the strain of going downhill! I arrived back down by 4pm. I’m a bit stiff today but very happy.”

Wendy set up a JustGiving page and while the total stands at just over £2330, other donations have brought the total to more than £3,000 – more than double her initial target for Pancreatic Cancer Action. The page remains open until the end of the month so there’s still time to donate.

“I cannot believe how generous everyone has been but too many folks have a sad story to tell around pancreatic cancer so my challenge, though tough, was nothing to the battle they go through. I hope like me though, the clouds will part and a clear view of how to find a cure will be found and I will be proud to feel that my small contribution has helped on that journey.”

Wendy chose Pancreatic Cancer Action as they are dedicated to saving lives by improving early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and the quality of patient survival. They fund vital research, create medical education programmes, produce national awareness campaigns and vital patient information.

“We need to beat this disease, to get this diagnosis is just the worst few things any doctor can tell you. Much more research is needed; one in two of us will be diagnosed with cancer and many have much better prognosis than pancreatic cancer. By donating to my walk, you will help to provide opportunities for research. The charity is also Scottish based so the money will stay local. Together we can do our bit and fight cancer. We fight so that others don't have to die.”

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the United Kingdom with the summit 1,345 metres above sea level and stands at the western end of the Grampian Mountains in the Highland region of Lochaber, close to the town of Fort William.