Alice Gold

I am climbing for rare cancers

On Friday 13 March, I’ll be joining hundreds of others to climb Australia’s highest peak as part of Rare Cancers Australia’s Kosi Challenge, raising awareness and vital funds for people affected by rare and less common cancers.

I’ll be climbing in memory of my Uncle and Godfather, Phil, who was taken from us far too soon by brain cancer. Phil was a huge inspiration in my life. He believed the path less travelled was often the most rewarding, leaving the “rat race” with his wife to live high in the French Alps, where they raised my cousin and built a life full of adventure - skiing in winter and mountaineering and paragliding in summer.

One of my favourite memories is of Phil teaching my sisters and me to ski. When I was seven, I was too scared to tackle a steep run, so Phil promised to take me on an “easier” way home. It turned into five hours of off-piste skiing through thick forest, climbing down rock faces and getting stuck in snowdrifts as daylight faded and tears filled my goggles. Sensing my spirits were low, Phil proudly produced a snack from his bag - a half-eaten, black banana. You can imagine my delight at the time - but it’s now one of my fondest memories.

Phil’s life was dedicated to the mountains, so it feels only fitting to dedicate this climb to him.

Funds raised through the Kosi Challenge support Rare Cancers Australia’s specialist cancer navigators, who provide personalised support for patients, carers and families facing rare and less common cancers.

If you’re able to contribute, any donation - big or small - would mean a great deal.

P.S. Rare Cancers Australia is a federally recognised Health Promotion Charity, and all donations are fully tax deductible.