Husband and wife duo Martin and Sevinc Burt have achieved a remarkable feat in reaching Everest Base Camp.
Standing at a staggering 17,598 feet above sea level, in aid of the Shooting Star Children's Hospices. Martin, a member of Osterley Lodge No 6430, in the Province of Middlesex, is a seasoned adventurer having previously climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Fuji and Machu Picchu among other challenges. This time, he and Sevinc set their sights on reaching the base camp of Mount Everest in March 2023, naming their project "Bottoms Up" after the toast.
Martin and Sevinc prepared themselves for the rigours of walking at high altitudes as altitude sickness can be a severe problem for even the fittest individuals, and the key to success is to maintain a steady pace and avoid going too fast. They outlined their training programme, which included gym sessions, uphill walking on the treadmill, and stair steppers. As the event drew nearer, they increased the difficulty of their training, including carrying loaded-up kit bags and practicing in the Surrey Hills and other areas.
In addition to their training, the couple have been raising funds for the Shooting Star Children's Hospices through various charitable events, including sponsored swims and skydiving. They are also organizing the Osterley Lodge Ladies Festival to be held on May 6th, with all proceeds going towards the charity. To date they have raised in excess of £13,500.
Martin is currently serving his second term as Worshipful Master of Osterley Lodge and his chosen Charity is the Shooting Star Children’s Hospice.
Both Martin and Sevinc have been able to visit the Hospice at Hampton to see the work that is being done to support the children. They were given a brief tour and met some of the team.
Martin said that it was a most humbling experience and it had been difficult to hold back the tears when one fully takes on board what some of the children and their families have to endure. This experience has strengthened their resolve even further.
‘Shooting Star is one of the nearest charities we have to the Twickenham Masonic Centre and a most worthy recipient of our support’
Martin and Sevinc's dedication to supporting charities through extreme events is inspiring, and their efforts have earned them the admiration of their fellow Brethren in the Province. Martin's chosen charity, the Shooting Star Children's Hospices, will benefit from all the funds raised, and he and Sevinc will cover all costs associated with their Everest Base Camp challenge.
