Father conquers Everest for Lifeline WA

MULLALOO father Greg Johnson recently told of his perilous journey to summit Mount Everest to raise money for Lifeline WA.

He was a speaker at the charity’s Chair’s Breakfast, held annually to acknowledge its achievements over the past financial year and the efforts made by fundraisers, like Mr Johnson who raised $14,000 when he climbed Mount Everest in May.

The fifth stop in his “seven summits” extreme challenge, Mr Johnson said Everest was harder than he had anticipated and resulted in frostbite and an 8kg weight loss.

But he said the physical toll was just the start, with the addition of the mental challenge he experienced in having to climb over dead bodies on the mountain.

“I saw stuff on that mountain that has traumatised me and I can absolutely empathise with people in hte armed forces, police and ambulance who go through that every day,” he said.

He said the experience reinforced his commitment to Lifeline WA, which he will continue to fundraise for into the future.

Lifeline WA chief executive officer Lorna MacGregor applauded Mr Johnson’s dedication.

“Greg is a fantastic ambassador for Lifeline WA and it’s incredible that he has literally put his life on the line to fundraise to help others,” she said.

“Any contribution helps make a difference for people who are struggling with their mental health, whether it’s volunteering their time as a telephone crisis supporter or donating money.”

Mr Johnson said he had experienced mental health challenges in the past and overcame them with the support of friends, focusing on “small incremental wins” and committing to achieving his goals.

He has already set his sights on his next set of goals, planning to climb the Carstensz Pyramid in August and swim the English Channel in 2021.

If successful, he will become one of the only people in Australia to conquer both the seven summits and the Channel.

Lifeline’s 24/7 telephone crisis support service is available on 13 11 14.

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