Climb for a cause

UAE resident to go trekking to raise money for charity


A six-day expedition to Nepal to raise money for research and create awareness about Parkinson's disease has been organised by the Parkinson's Disease Society.

A British charity organisation, it promotes research on the Parkinson's disease, which can affect people of all ages without any apparent reason or warning, as well as provides advice and assistance to people suffering from it.

A group of 15 women will be going on this expedition and Anna Yates, a marketing professional and UAE resident since 1978, is one of them.

A proud mother of four, Yates said she would be flying to Nepal on May 12 after meeting up with the other members in Doha. The group will be trekking for six days and five nights. The highest point they are aiming for is 3,050 metres.

"At that height, the view is supposedly spectacular and breathtaking and I am especially looking forward to that," said Yates. Their guide is a retired British Army personnel and the group will be accompanied by a team of sherpas.

Yates has witnessed the effect of Parkinson's disease. "Sadly, my father-in-law was struck with this awful disease just as he was about to start enjoying his retirement," she says. "Now, on bad days he cannot even open his own eyelids without help."

Yates had always wanted to go trekking and doing it for a good cause served as an added incentive.

"At least now I will be able to say I have accomplished something. Not only by means of climbing such heights, but also by helping a section of people in whatever little way possible."

In preparation for the daily six to seven hours of walking at high altitudes, Anna has been going for long walks, playing tennis and attending body pump sessions.

"The trek is going to be a special achievement for me as I will be one of the oldest participants," she says. Yates turns 50 on December 2.

The trekkers have each paid Dh1,650 for registration and insurance. This, along with other contributions, has added up to a decent amount that will go to the organisation.

"I am overwhelmed by the response and owe thanks to many friends and colleagues who have donated towards thiscause. I am also grateful to the companies who have enabled me to more than reach my target," says Yates.

Though the amount raised has exceeded the target, Yates would still like to contribute as much as she can to the organisation. Those interested in contributing can contact her by e-mail on anna.yates@gm.com.