On top of the world!

Tuesday 21 July 2015

A father who underwent surgery to remove a brain tumour two years ago has reached the top of Ben Nevis with his 14-year-old son in a charity climb.

And not only did Gary Coutanche, the Headteadher of De La Salle Primary School, and his son William reach the peak of Britain’s highest mountain yesterday – they made the summit two whole days early.

The pair – along with family friend Eric Blakeley, a mountaineer and former TV journalist – were climbing in support of the Jersey Brain Tumour Charity.

Gary sent this message back home from the peak: “Hello. Climbed Ben Nevis today. Ledge Route in strong winds and rain. A few exciting moments!

“Really pleased to have made it to the top. Too cold and wet to wear the t-shirts- had to walk through patches of snow on the way up. Yippee!

“William and I very proud to have achieved our aim, and in some pretty awful weather.”

Before he left, Gary explained why he wanted to support the charity that had done so much to help him and his family over the last couple of years.

He said: “After I had undergone surgery to remove a brain tumour, the Jersey Brain Tumour Charity provided me with genuine support at a time when I needed it most and their support worker really helped me along the road to recovery.

“The excellent service they offer patients and their families is invaluable and in return for the support they gave to me I wanted to give something back. The challenge of climbing Ben Nevis is the perfect opportunity for my son and I to help fund the vital work they do.”

You can donate money in support of Gary and William’s climb here.