Rhys Fitzgerald, an On-Call Firefighter at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service based at Kidwelly Fire Station, is set to take on the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge this January.
The challenge forms part of Rhys’ training and fundraising journey towards his ultimate goal: climbing Mount Everest in full Firefighting kit.
On 31 January, he will be joined by colleagues from across the Service to tackle the Welsh Three Peaks, climbing a total ascent of 2,900m, all while wearing firefighting kit.
Rhys is no stranger to extreme challenges. He has previously completed multiple charity walks, summited Ben Nevis, and climbed Ama Dablam, a 6,182m peak in Nepal’s Koshi Province. Through each challenge, he continues to push his limits while raising funds and awareness for causes close to his heart:
- The Fire Fighters Charity – a charity that provides lifelong support to serving and retired firefighters and their families.
- Mind – which provides information, support and campaigns for people with mental health problems.
- The Nimsdai Foundation – which works to clear rubbish left on mountains in the Himalayas from previous expeditions as well as supporting the ‘unsung heroes of the mountains, the Everest Base Camp Trail’s Porters.
Rhys is currently fundraising through a GiveStar page, all donations will be split between covering the cost of the expedition as well as being donated to his chosen charities.
Everyone at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service wishes Rhys the best of luck in completing his challenge!