Parkinson’s WA chief executive Brenda Matthews and her team on a Himalayan trek last year.
Camera IconParkinson’s WA chief executive Brenda Matthews and her team on a Himalayan trek last year. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Fundraiser hits dizzying heights

Caitlin TillerWestern Suburbs Weekly

In April, the Parkinson’s WA chief executive is returning to Nepal for the ninth time to raise money for the Nedland-based organisation’s specialist nurse team by trekking through the Himalayas.

“I’ve got this opportunity to see if I can raise money for Parkinson’s,” Ms Matthews said.

“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.”

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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.

“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 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.