Hile Teuk Kampuchea & Cancer Care West Charities

Climbing Kilimanjaro for two worthy causes

Hi there,

Thank you for taking the time to read this piece. On January 30, 2025, I will embark on a journey to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. I will personally cover 100% of all costs involved, ensuring that every single penny raised is equally divided between two charities close to my heart.

Hile Teuk Kampuchea (HTK)

HTK, meaning "Swim Cambodia" in Khmer, was established in 2023 and builds upon the work of UK-based SWIM Cambodia. It is the only Cambodian organization solely focused on reducing child drowning through water safety education and aims to provide survival swimming training as funding allows.

Funding Need

HTK is seeking $20,000 to implement its Aquatic Survival Programme (ASP) in Siem Reap province, Cambodia. This funding will enable:

• Training 2,000 students across 10 primary schools in water safety education and survival swimming.

• Certifying 20 teachers and 10 community volunteers as water safety instructors.

Why It Matters

Drowning is the leading cause of death among Cambodian children over the age of four. Alarmingly, 95% of these children could not swim and had no knowledge of water safety. HTK's intervention through education and practical training represents a cost-effective and life-saving approach to this preventable tragedy.

Cancer Care West, Galway

Cancer Care West’s Support Centre in Galway provides a lifeline for adults, families, and children affected by cancer. Whether you're a patient, a partner, a relative, or a friend, their doors are open to offer support, solace, and strength.

Services They Offer

• Professional staff, including psychologists, counsellors, oncology nurses, and cancer support specialists.

• Workshops and support groups tailored to all types and stages of cancer, from new diagnoses to recurrence or post-treatment challenges.

• A warm, homely environment where patients and families can drop in for a chat and a comforting cup of tea.

Why It’s Personal

My dear friend Alan has spent time in Cambodia working with HTK. He has shared his experiences firsthand; the stories have affected me deeply. It’s because of this connection that I can vouch that every penny raised will be used ethically & for its intended purpose, directly helping the children, whose lives your donation will not only change but save.

When my dear mum was battling cancer, Cancer Care West was an invaluable support not just to her but to our entire family. Their compassion and care during her brave journey, which ended almost 10 years ago, left a lasting impact on us.

Your support will directly impact the lives of those in need—whether by saving children in Cambodia from drowning or by providing solace to cancer patients and their families.

Thank you for joining me on this journey of hope and generosity!