Avinash Tackles His Climb For Cancer
Media Release from the Cancer Association of South Africa
Avinash Naidoo
20 June 2017 – Ascending the fourth highest summit in the world – Kilimanjaro – is Avinash Naidoo’s way of testing his personal limits while raising money to fight cancer.
“I have been dreaming of testing my personal limits to the extreme, doing something wild that will test my physical and mental strength. I think summiting Kilimanjaro – the highest peak on the African continent at is 5 895m (19 341 feet) above sea level – will fulfil this dream,” says Avinash Naidoo.
But that’s not all. Every step of his seven-day journey to the summit will be in tribute to survivors – people who have fought and are fighting cancer.
CANSA Head of Sustainability, Maria Scholtz says: “Avinash has registered on the CANSA website, an initiative to raise funds for CANSA through his Kilimanjaro ascent in memory of his seven family members who have fought cancer – most recently, his mother. We’re very grateful that he chose to support our work by celebrating her life in such a positive way.”
Naidoo explains: “I will be climbing Kili from 1st – 8th September this year to make people aware that my mom’s battle against this dreaded disease lasted for eight years, which goes to show that cancer can be beaten. CANSA does fantastic work in various communities and provides services such as patient support groups, education about healthy living, cancer awareness, and counselling for patients and their families. I hope the funds raised and awareness my ascent will advance this good work.”
As to why he feels the need to raise money through his big adventure, Naidoo responds: “There are many people who volunteer to provide these services, but it does sometimes still cost money in order to keep the operations moving forward. People give their time and skills, but that’s not all that is needed in order to fight against cancer.”
He appeals: “If you have lost loved ones or have loved ones in treatment, you can understand the pain that this disease can cause. Please help me to help CANSA try to create a world without cancer. Your contribution can help to save lives!” If you would like to support Naidoo’s initiative, please visit https://www.givengain.com/ap/ClimbForCancer/ to make a contribution.
With that dates officially confirmed, Avinash is diligently involved in training routines on a daily basis. He trains from the local gym close to his home in Buccleuch and has acquired the services of a personal trainer who is providing guidance on the achieving the highest levels of fitness in order to submit Kili.
