A Bedford dad who once struggled to tie his shoelaces due to his weight is now preparing to trek to Everest Base Camp to raise money for learning disability charity, Hft.
Ian Earey, 36, started going to the gym in September 2023 after reaching over 19 stone. Just months later, he’s lost five stone, transformed his health, and is now training to take on the 5,364m climb to base camp.
“I was pretty heavy and had to hold my breath just to tie my shoelaces,” said Ian. “I was feeling lethargic and knew I had to make a change.”
The dad-of-one now hits the gym four to six times a week and credits the transformation not just for improving his health, but his overall wellbeing too.
Ian is no stranger to a challenge. Last year he completed the Three Peaks Challenge in under 24 hours and is already planning to do it again to beat his time.
He’s also fitting in training walks with his 12-year-old beagle, Ben, ahead of the Everest challenge. “The spiders I might meet on the trek worry me more than the climb itself,” he joked.
Ian has worked in adult social care all his life and is currently Head of Care and Support for Hft’s East Division. His passion for care comes from his mum, who managed a care home, and from supporting family members with learning disabilities.
“Social care has always been a huge part of my life,” said Ian. “Raising money for Hft is my way of helping to protect services for people who need them now and in the future.”
Ian will be joined by colleague Tracy Hampson and friend Jacquie Cotterill, with the trio aiming to raise £15,000.
The trip, led by experienced guides, begins in Kathmandu and will take them through gorges, suspension bridges and snowy peaks.
You can support their journey at justgiving.com/page/teamhfteverestbasecampchallenge.
