Colne NHS worker Amanda Shilton to climb Pendle Hill 40 times for Hope and Mind at LSCFT in memory of her brother

Amanda Shilton, a senior improvement adviser at Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, has set herself the challenge of completing 40 ascents of Pendle Hill ahead of her 40th birthday.

Amanda, from Colne, said the challenge was inspired by a deeply personal reason. April 13th marks three years since the death of her brother, Chris, who died by suicide.

She began the feat on April 13th, giving herself just 34 days to finish. Initially planning to tackle one climb per day, Amanda has already pushed beyond her expectations by completing back-to-back ascents in a single outing.

“In a slightly last-minute moment of sunshine-fuelled madness I decided I wanted to set myself a challenge,” she said. “I wanted to celebrate my upcoming 40th birthday, but also to fundraise in memory of my brother Chris.

“This challenge is deeply personal. I’m incredibly grateful for my own wellbeing, and while this is a tough and slightly crazy challenge, it is one I’ve chosen. People do not choose to have a mental illness.”

Funds raised will go to Hope and Mind at LSCFT, the charity supporting the Trust’s mental health, learning disability and autism services across Lancashire and South Cumbria.

Over the course of the challenge, Amanda will cover around 80 miles and climb more than 28,400 feet – a total ascent comparable to scaling Mount Everest.

When the challenge began Amanda planned to walk daily but has since surprised herself by pushing herself further and completing two pendle hill climbs back-to-back, something she never imagined she could do.

She added: “I was genuinely surprised. I never believed I was capable of back-to-back walks, but I did it and it has completely changed how I’m viewing this challenge.

“I now have the option to complete two climbs in a single walk, which means I can plan rest days – and I’m hoping to finish with a final symbolic climb on my birthday.”

Colleagues and supporters have rallied behind Amanda, joining her on walks, sharing her story and donating to her fundraiser.

Originally aiming to raise £250, she has already surpassed that target.

“To have already exceeded my original target is an overwhelming feeling,” she said. “I’m so grateful for everyone’s support — whether that’s donating, sharing my story or simply encouraging me.

“I wanted to do something special for my birthday and in memory of my brother Chris, and I’m really enjoying the challenge so far — even if the tiredness and achy legs have started. I’m determined to keep going.”

The Hope and Mind at LSCFT charity works to enhance NHS services, reduce health inequalities and tackle stigma surrounding mental health across the region.

Their vision is to help LSCFT achieve excellence in healthcare, complement and enhance NHS services to enrich the experience of those receiving care and break stigma surrounding mental health.

Readers can follow Amanda’s progress and support her fundraiser via her JustGiving page.