Climbing the Matterhorn in support of children with autism

Summary:

• Hi, we are Sorin Z. and Alex G. and we are raising funds for HELP autism, an organization that helps children and young people with autism spectrum disorder and supports their families as well. HELP autism is also building the first inclusive camp in Romania (more details below).

• To honor your support and donations, we are going to take on the challenge of summiting the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the world, later this September. To be clear, this is no easy feat involving 9-12 hours of practically non-stop exposed technical climbing in crampons over rock, ice and snow at high altitude!

• Raising £2 for every meter of our ascent (4,478m x £2 = £8,956)!!!!!!!!!!!!

• Yes, we know this is a high fundraising goal, but if we can climb the Matterhorn then we can this monetary peak as well!

• We need your help with sharing this message within your network, getting involved by being our ambassadors, and of course, by donating to this wonderful cause!

Who is HELP autism?

• HELP autism is an organization that guides children and young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from evaluation and diagnosis to therapy, from school integration through the transition to adult life. They support families every step of the way, in every need.

• Founded in 2010, HELP autism is today the largest organization dedicated to the autism cause in Romania. Currently c. 708 children and adolescents benefit from therapy with the support of HELP autism. Over the years, they have helped over 3,200 children reach their full potential.

• Their current projects include therapeutic intervention through their 9 centers across Romania, family support and social assistance, education and training and integrating children with ASD in the job environment. HELP autism is also one of the biggest advocacy and awareness bodies in the country pushing for state subsidies and policies for families in need.

• Their largest project is building an inclusive camp in Romania dedicated to all children and youngsters regardless of their (dis)ability. An innovative camp that provides opportunities to self-autonomy and independence.

• More details on their website .

The Matterhorn

• Matterhorn (or Cervino / Cervin) is a mountain of the Alps, straddling the main watershed and border between Italy and Switzerland. It is a large, near-symmetric pyramidal peak whose summit is 4,478 metres (14,692 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest summits in the Alps and Europe.

• It is one of the most iconic mountains in the world, known by experienced mountaineers and newbies alike, background for timeless skiing holiday photos, Disney theme parks and reference point for chocolate aficionados.

Our Journey and Support:

• This journey and personal challenge will be a symbol of conquering our daily struggles and fears in life. Adversity is difficult to overcome for anyone, but especially for those less fortunate.

• Summiting the Matterhorn is no easy task! The fact is, looking from Zermatt, the peak looks nothing short of terrifying and compared to most alpine peaks, the assent looks impossibly steep and uncompromising.

• Our fitness levels are those of an “average Joe”. We will have to seriously up our game over the next month! Our training will involve running more than 100km, climbing 2,000+ floors and push 5km+ of weights together with an altitude training crash course!

• We hope you will be motivated by our willingness to push upwards against these challenges help us achieve our fundraising goals, both by donating and being our ambassadors. Please share our efforts within your own network!

Onwards and upwards!

Sorin and Alex