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Everest in the Alps: The height of fundraising

Imagine climbing the equivalent of the height of Everest on skis – while living with a glioblastoma. That’s what John Woodman did in a team of 12 including his daughter Belle. Here, she tells their story of Everest in the Alps.

A team takes on Everest in the Alps - walking up a snowy mountain on skis
Belle's view from the back of the group

Team Woodman take on Everest in the Alps

When John Woodman retired after a busy career running a property company, he was looking forward to travelling, sailing and spending time with his close-knit family. But a brain tumour diagnosis in March 2024 stopped him in his tracks.

A year on, he completed an arduous ski climbing challenge: Everest in the Alps, alongside his daughter, Belle, and 10 friends to raise vital funds for research into brain tumours – an incredible £300K to date. Then he went straight back into treatment.

A chat with Belle

I caught up with Belle over a cuppa to find out more about John’s diagnosis, and the training and logistics involved in the challenge. Belle, who has a twin brother and two older brothers, explains why she joined her Dad on the challenge, how she got through it and the emotional moment the team reached the summit.

Find out more about the challenge

You can find out more about The Woodman Ascent on their Instagram feed here.