In April, Ms Matthews, the chief executive of Parkinson’s WA, is returning to Nepal for the ninth time to raise money for the organisation’s specialist nurse team by trekking through the Himalayas.
“In my position as CEO, it’s important that I lead by example and it’s what we call third-party fundraising, where I pay for all of my trip, so anything raised goes to Parkinson’s WA.”
Carine resident Ms Matthews will trek for 20 days to reach the 6117m summit of Mount Lobuche, where temperatures can drop to below freezing in April.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW“I love a physical challenge and the scenery is beautiful,” she said.
“Getting into a two-man tent in a sleeping bag every night isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but the luxury is in the amazing scenery that you don’t get unless you’re there.
“It’s actually quite difficult to explain to people why you keep going back unless you have been there.”
Ms Matthews said she hoped to raise $1000 to support specialist Parkinson’s nurses in regional areas.
“One of the reasons I’m proud of the association is how far the nurses have come along,” she said.
“They are terrific – so dedicated to the job and to supporting people.”
To support Ms Matthews climb for Parkinson’s WA, visit here.