Reaching new heights: Vitalograph's John Moran fundraises €5,705 for Galway Hospice on Himalayan adventure

For Vitalograph Supply Chain Associate John Moran, based in Ennis, what began as an ambitious fundraising challenge became an extraordinary adventure through the heart of the Himalayas. It was an experience that tested physical and mental endurance, created lasting friendships and provided memories to treasure for a lifetime. 

John returned to Ireland on 8 November following an expedition organised by Earth’s Edge, trekking more than 152 kilometres through the spectacular Khumbu Valley towards Mount Everest Base Camp, in support of Galway Hospice Foundation. 

“It was an expedition and experience of a lifetime. Challenging and demanding, both physically and mentally, and certainly not for the fainthearted - but I wouldn’t change it for the world!" John said. 

“From our first steps in Lukla to reaching Gorakshep at 5,184 metres, every day brought something different. There were long days of trekking, basic tea-house accommodation, spectacular views, plenty of laughter and, of course, the unforgettable experience of trekking more than 16 kilometres through snow blizzards!”  

Although severe weather prevented the group from completing the final 3.5 kilometres to Everest Base Camp, John said that the challenging trek through the snow became one of the  highlights of the entire expedition. 

He reflected: “We set out to reach Everest Base Camp but discovered that the greatest rewards of the journey were the friendships we made, the challenges we overcame and the difference we made along the way.” 

John’s fundraising efforts raised a massive €5,705 in aid of Galway Hospice. To support his campaign, Vitalograph hosted a fundraiser in the Ennis and Limerick offices, raising €1,200 in the process. 

“Every moment matters, and every act of kindness makes a difference. Galway Hospice provides such invaluable care, comfort and compassion to patients and their families during some of life’s most difficult moments. We may not have reached Everest Base Camp, but we came home with something equally special: unforgettable memories, friendships for life and the satisfaction of making a difference,” John concluded.