News Beat
Hikers in Himalayan trek for Red Sky Foundation charity
Carlene Wright and Toni Roberts from Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital took part in the self-funded 11-person expedition in support of the Red Sky Foundation.
The charity provides cardiac equipment, specialist care, community defibrillators, and family support across the region and beyond.
All funds raised from the trek – none of which were spent on travel costs – will directly support the charity’s work improving the lives of people living with heart conditions.
Dr Sergio Petrucci, founder of the Red Sky Foundation, said: “We are so incredibly proud of every single member of our Everest team.
“Taking on a challenge like this takes grit, determination, and a whole lot of heart, and they showed all of that and more.
“We had a WhatsApp group with everyone on the trek and their daily updates were honestly so inspiring.
“It is amazing to think that this group of fantastic people chose to give their time, energy, leave their families at home, and even use their own money to support Red Sky Foundation.
“The funds they have raised will help us keep being there for people when they need us most, whether that is saving a life in an emergency or standing beside families as they navigate incredibly difficult times.
“We cannot thank them enough for everything they have done and for the inspiration they have brought to our entire Red Sky community.”
The group included four women and seven men who took on the challenge together, motivating one another as they traversed the demanding route from Lukla through remote Sherpa villages and rugged Himalayan landscapes to reach Everest base camp.
Along the way, they raised awareness for the charity while representing the North East on a global stage.
Sean McQuaid, managing director of Dere Street Homes and a member of the trekking team, described the experience as life-changing.
He said: “Trekking to Everest Base Camp for Red Sky Foundation was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life.
“The sudden shift in culture was incredible, and the warmth, humility, and resilience of the Sherpa communities gave us a new level of respect for the mountain and the people who call it home.
“Every day tested us in different ways, from the biting cold to the difficult acclimatisation, but knowing we were doing it to support the Red Sky Foundation community, families living with heart conditions, and the mission kept us going.
“Along the way, we formed incredible friendships and bonds with our fellow participants.
“Sharing such an intense and transformative experience created connections that I know will be long-lasting.
“Reaching Base Camp felt like a real team achievement and a reminder of how powerful it is when people come together for a cause that truly matters.”
