By Jamie White – Head of Communications

After experiencing the trip of a lifetime early this year, a team member from Douglas Stafford is preparing to embark on another adventure.

Emma Chandler, who works in the ICMS department at the Douglas Stafford head office at 1000 Lakeside, Portsmouth, will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in the New Year, as part of a month-long trip.

But before she tackles the highest mountain in Africa, she will also be teaching English to young children at an orphanage in Tanzania.

Emma’s father, Pete, will be joining her for the seven-day expedition up – and down – the 5,895 metres tall mountain. Pete has climbed Ben Nevis and the Pyrenees previously, so his experience will be vital.

Emma is raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society, in memory of her grandmother, who passed away in October.

Emma said: “It’s a cause very close to my heart. For the last five years of her life she suffered with Vascular Dementia which was the result of a series of strokes. The Alzheimer’s Society provides all sorts of services including local support programmes, telephone and online services, research, training and development, campaigning and raising awareness.

“I have never climbed a mountain before, so this is something very new to me. I have been training for it with a series of long walks and runs.”

“I’m a bit concerned about how the altitude might affect me, but I’m sure it will be ok. Apparently you experience all sorts of climates from tropical rainforest to minus 20 degrees, and with only a tent to sleep in, it will be a tough challenge, but one I am looking forward to.”

Anyone wishing to sponsor Emma can do so here – http://www.justgiving.com/emma-chandler2