Machu Pichu Challenge

On 2nd November I am off to Peru for 3 weeks to fulfil an ambition I have had since I was 19yrs old, to walk the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Yes, it would be much easier to catch the train to the ruins, but then I would miss out on all that marvellous scenery, the wonderful sight of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, and the challenge of climbing "Dead Woman's Pass" at 4200 metres, the highest peak on the walk (Just hope the name is prophetic!). Although the trail is only 40 kms it is quite a challenge - not just the trail, but altitude sickness which has stopped many a trekker from completing the walk. To get fit I have been training at "Joe's Basecamp" in a special altitude chamber, so hopefully I will achieve my ambition, and successfully reach the Sun Gate on a clear sunny morning.

My challenge will last only 4 days, but for the many women in our community, who are suffering the horrors of domestic violence, the challenge for themselves and their children can be daily and at any time.

To give special meaning to my trek to Machu Pichu, I am raising money for the Manly Women's Shelter, a community based non-profit and non-government organisation, whose aim is to provide up to 3 months crisis accommodation and support for homeless women on the Northern Beaches. The Shelter helps the women get back on their feet, assists them enrol in Tafe, find permanent accommodation and reunite them with their families if appropriate.

It is hard to imagine having to flee your home because of a violent partner, having no-where to go and not knowing what to do, so any support for my cause to assist these women would be greatly appreciated. All donations will be tax deductible and will be matched dollar for dollar by the Macquarie Foundation, so the funds raised will be quite meaningful for the Shelter.

Do hope you can help.

Anne