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( Last Updated: 27-04-2011 )
Everest expedition raises £5,000 for British Heart Foundation
After suffering a heart attack last year, an award-winning Midas Construction project manager has made the long trek to Everest Base Camp raising money for the British Heart Foundation.
39 year-old Falmouth resident Justin Penhallurick was one of only six trekkers from 17 who started the 5364 metres climb to Base Camp on the charity expedition that started in March.
As a thank you to his employers and main sponsor, Justin took a Midas Group flag with him and inscribed the name of the late Midas Director Murdo Mace in the Everest snow.
Justin said: "We contended with diverted flights, aborted landings, emergency landings and a shortage of time. Three of the team were exhausted because of altitude sickness but six of us managed to reach Base Camp.
"I want to thank everyone who supported me especially Midas who not only sponsored me, but generously gave me time off to complete the trek. I wonder if getting the Midas flag to Everest Base camp makes the company the highest achieving construction business in the UK!
"I was also championed from the outset by my director at Midas, Murdo Mace, who sadly passed away before I left for Nepal, so I thought it an appropriate gesture to record his invaluable input by leaving his name in the snow at the top of the world."
Speaking of his motivation for attempting the once-in-a-lifetime challenge, Justin added:
"I have never smoked and I've maintained reasonable fitness with a moderate social life so a heart attack was a bit of a surprise especially at my age. The support and care I received throughout treatment and recuperation from medical staff, from friends, family and work colleagues was absolutely tremendous.
"I'm very proud of having already raised over £5,000 towards my £10,000 target in aid of the British heart Foundation."
Donations can still be made online by visiting towards Justin's £10,000 target for the British Heart Foundation by visiting www.justgiving.com/justinsheartliesoneverest