Backing Alpine challenge in aid of Covid medical teams

A team of six will take on the famous Patrouille des Glaciers (PDG) Route between Zermatt and Verbier in aid of Doctors in Distress and the Intensive Care Society.

Considered to be one of the toughest courses in the world, the PDG covers a 57.5km route at altitudes of up to 4,000 metres.

Over five days during March 2022 they will trek and ski, facing the risk of avalanches, the hazards of glacier crossing, freezing temperatures and altitude sickness. 

The team includes four healthcare professionals who have worked on intensive care units in the UK since March 2020 and have first-hand experience of the difficulties faced by staff.

Event founder Gary Pittaway was inspired to act by his daughter Harriet, a junior doctor.

“Through Harriet, I’ve seen how immense the mental and physical pressure from the pandemic has been,” Gary explained.

“Day after day, spending relentless hours in full PPE, they’ve been dealing with the sickest of patients and loss of life.”

Funds raised will help to support those who’ve suffered from mental health issues during the Covid pandemic.

Almost half of doctors across the UK have said they have suffered from depression, anxiety, stress and burn-out while the number of nurses being offered mental health support has increased by 60 per cent.

John Simkins, Transmec’s UK general manager, said: “Healthcare professionals have responded magnificently to care for patients in their hour of need and we’re pleased to do something to help them in return.”

The Zermatt to Verbier Challenge takes place from March 21 to 25, 2022. Donations can be made via https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ZtoV2022.