ipswich: A founding member of a treasured charity is preparing for the challenge of a lifetime.

Sally Thompson, of the Camille’s Appeal, will take on the tallest free standing mountain in the world – Mount Kilimanjaro.

Alongside her on the journey will be her close friends Tracy Edwards and Ryan Smith.

Ms Thompson, of Charsfield, said: “When I heard that Tracy was doing the climb, I thought what a great fundraiser for Camille’s Appeal – I’ll do it.

“Now I’ve done some research, it is rather daunting but I’ve bought the boots, so I’m committed.

“Both Tracy and Ryan are South African born but I am not sure if this gives them an advantage.

“The success of summiting Kili seems to be down to the altitude sickness and how well you cope with it.

“A doctor told me it is in your genetics, let’s hope mine are good.”

The Camille’s Appeal was set up in August 2009 by Martin and Hayley Shave after their daughter, Camille, was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of two.

Camille started school in September and has been declared free of cancer, but she still faces a long road to recovery.

So far, more than �170,000 has been raised, which will be used to help create a rehabilitation service for children in Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

The trio will leave for the eight-day trip on Saturday, June 23.

Anyone who would like to support the event can donate by visiting www.justgiving,com/KilliForCamille

To find out more about the appeal, visit www.camillesappeal.co.uk

n Are you taking on a challenge for charity? Write to Your Letters, Ipswich Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN