Personal message

In 2013, I heard that a friend’s little boy was diagnosed with an aggressive form of childhood cancer.  I followed Hanno’s journey from the time he was diagnosed until the devastating day that he died – 19 July 2014. This brave and courageous child changed my life.

This year I will be climbing Kilimanjaro in memory of Hanno Lewis and to raise funds and awareness for children still fighting this dread disease. I have chosen to do this for Rainbows and Smiles because this is the charity his mom; Nadia now volunteers for – a charity close to her heart and now close to mine.

I met with the team from Rainbows and Smiles and I was overwhelmed to learn that out of the 9 volunteers at the charity ALL of them had somehow been affected by childhood cancer. Their principles include creating hope, smiles and relief for families and caregivers of children with cancer.  

Kilimanjaro, known as the roof of Africa, is one of the world’s most recognizable peaks. It rises above the East African plains and the summit is an impressive snow-capped magical view.

I am mentally prepared for the challenge and now it is time to get physically ready. My determination and passion to make a difference in the lives of these children will prove I am strong enough to do it.