How many people go on each trip [back to top]
We take a maximum of 10 participants on each trip, and a minimum of 6. There will also be at least one guide from the country of the trek, and usually a UK guide, medic, and a Cure Leukaemia ambassador as well.
How many trips do you do each year [back to top]
In 2009 we are planning to do 4 or 5. Depending on the success of these we will do more in 2010.
How fit do I have to be [back to top]
All our treks have a fitness rating, and they vary from average (Sahara, Dog Sledding) where you need to be active and mobile every day, to fit with no injuries (Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp), where you’ll be required to walk for 5-8 hours every day, on some uneven ground.
The very nature of our treks means a certain level of fitness is required. Getting fit and prepared is part of the challenge, and hopefully should be rewarding on the trek itself.
Most of our programmes will recommend you start two to three months before your trip getting fit and building up stamina. It will depend on your current level of fitness of course, however, as with all things, the more prepared you are the more you will enjoy the
expedition. Please be sensible with your training, but don’t forget to challenge yourself.
See our Health and Fitness pages for more detail. Don’t forget people are sponsoring you to undertake a challenge. Set yourself realistic goals, but remember that the more prepared you are, the more you will enjoy the expedition.
How can I prepare for the altitude [back to top]
On our Kilimanjaro trek we really take our time getting up to base camp at 4700m. You will have plenty of acclimatisation time, and you will have the best chance of getting to the summit. There is no preparation you can do, apart from following our instructions on the trek, which will include taking your time and drinking plenty of water. Each time you go to altitude you could react differently, and
no past experience or that of others will define how you will be next time.
How much do I have to raise, and by when [back to top]
The amount varies depending on the trek. Have a look at our adventure details to find out the exact total.
We will need you to have raised the full amount before departure. If you have not managed to do this, we will ask for a post dated cheque or card details to take the balance 30 days after your return date. Check out our fundraising advice page for more information and help.
How much of the money I raise goes to the charity [back to top]
We do incur costs to run the treks, and a proportion of the funds you raise will cover those costs. We are happy to let you know the cost of each trek if you would prefer to contribute to this directly. But the funds we raise through our treks far outweigh the costs and benefits the charity greatly.
What kit will I need [back to top]
Having the right kit will ensure you get the best out of your trip. We want to ensure you aren’t too cold, too hot, that you can keep well hydrated etc. So we’ll send you a full kit list when we receive your application and deposit, but if you are considering taking part,
please feel free to contact us, and we can let you know what you’ll need, depending on which trek you’re interested in, and the best way to get hold of it.
How can I get fit [back to top]
A trek of a lifetime like this is a great goal for getting fit. We have some fitness plans and tips for you, go to our Health and Fitness pages to find out more.
Why should I go with Cure Leukaemia [back to top]
Currently 80% of adults with leukaemia die.
There are 125,000 leukaemia patients living within the UK, with another 25,000 patients being newly diagnosed each year.
So in 2005, Cure Leukaemia started fundraising and has raised to date £3.2 million to build a world class centre for clinical leukaemia
research.
We provide salaries for 13 research nurses to drive forward the research throughout the region. This has attracted the support of many of the major pharmaceutical companies who have provided £11.6 million of free drugs to support the trials.
The amazing Centre of Excellence, based in Birmingham, allow people to be diagnosed, treated and cured in a homely, ‘un-hospital’
environment, where they are cared for by dedicated and caring Research Nurses and Scientists.
None of this has been funded through the NHS. It continues to be funded entirely independently. We need your support to ensure the
Centre can continue its vital research which is recognised worldwide, continue treating patients, and saving lives, every day.
What happens if I don’t manage to raise the money [back to top]
We will need you to have raised the full amount before departure. If you have not managed to do this, we will ask for a post dated cheque or card details to take the balance 30 days after your return date.
Can I go on my own do other people go on their own [back to top]
Most of our participants are there on their own, i.e. without someone that they know. The team spirit will help you achieve your goal, and you will make some amazing friends along the way.
How much contact will I have with home [back to top]
That depends enormously on which trek you take part in. Surprisingly, even in the remotest parts of Nepal and Tanzania, there is some mobile signal, and even internet access. However, it isn’t to be relied upon.
For safety, we carry a satellite phone with us at all times, but this cannot be used for personal calls.
What happens if I have to cancel the trek [back to top]
If you cancel on medical grounds you may be able to claim on your travel insurance. Donations that are given through justgiving.com
can’t be returned, so it may be worth postponing onto another trek if possible. Regrettably, in all circumstances, you will lose your £250 deposit. If you think you may have to cancel please call us as soon as possible and we will do our best to help.
Will I be safe [back to top]
Every trek takes a medic from the UK, and all our medics are expedition medicine trained and have the most comprehensive
medical kits in the industry. We are diligent in the level of medical and moral support that we provide, and will cater to everyone’s
requirements. We will ask you to complete a medical questionnaire at the time of sign up, and will discuss any needs you may have prior to departure.
Will I have to have jabs, or take Malaria tablets? [back to top]
Each trek will require different inoculations, and we always recommend that you tell your GP or practice nurse exactly where you are going, so that they can advise you on what you need. Some vaccinations are compulsory when entering certain countries, but where they are not, it is ultimately your decision on what you choose to do. You will need to pay if you require Yellow Fever, Rabies, or Hep B. Malaria tablets are always chargeable.
There are also many useful websites that can advise you, of which a few are here:
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/travel/vaccines_index.shtml
http://www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk/home.aspx
http://www.globetrotterstravelclinics.com/