Getting to know: Kelly’s Heroes Climb Kilimanjaro – Sherry Adams

As part of the Kelly’s Heroes Climb Kilimanjaro charity fundraiser, we are getting to know the team taking on the incredible challenge between 12-21 September 2024.

Next up we hear from the CEO of Kelly’s Heroes, Sherry Adams.

Name: Sherry Adams

Job title: CEO

Company: Kelly’s Heroes

How long you’ve been there? In my 4th year

Why are you climbing Kilimanjaro? Climbing Kilimanjaro isn’t about reaching the summit; it’s a personal commitment to embracing a physical challenge that I know will profoundly benefit my health and fitness. As someone who spends too many hours sitting behind a desk or staring at a screen, I realise it is time to prioritise my well-being and break free from the sedentary lifestyle that has become familiar.

This journey isn’t just for me; it’s also about setting an example for my three adult children. I want to show them that I’m capable of tackling tough challenges and pushing my limits, regardless of my age. Kilimanjaro’s breathtaking natural beauty offers a perfect backdrop for this adventure, making it a win-win situation where I can immerse myself in the wonders of nature, my happy place, while also proving to myself and my loved ones that I’m capable of achieving remarkable feats.

Beyond the physical aspect, I understand the importance of mental resilience and perseverance. Climbing Kilimanjaro is like a test of my own strength and determination, a chance to prove to myself that I can still overcome obstacles and achieve more goals.

On this journey, I’m not just climbing a mountain; I’m taking a bold step towards self-discovery, growth, and empowerment, and I can’t wait to see where this adventure takes me.

How are you preparing? As someone who spends many hours behind a desk or on Zoom calls, my first priority had to be increasing my physical activity. With too many hours spent in an “office” setting, ensuring I reach an average of 10,000 steps per day has been crucial since September 2023. Having a walking pad under a standing desk has been a helpful addition.

I’ve also been focusing on incorporating long hikes into my routine. I’ve booked several multiday hikes but find it essential to venture beyond my local area, as it’s quite flat here. Whenever I encounter a hill, I’m eager to climb up and down it as much as possible.

Having spoken to individuals who have completed Kilimanjaro, they all emphasise that it’s not just about speed; it’s also about the mental challenge. I’m hoping that mental resilience will be one of my strengths. Additionally, I’m working with a personal trainer – Ben Stewart, who climbed Kilimanjaro by walking backwards. Together, we’ve developed a 20-week program aimed at building strength in my feet, ankles, knees, and hips – and so far, it’s been progressing well!

What are you least looking forward to? I’m not great on long flights, but the altitude, is the unknown, I guess there a little fear that I won’t be able to take huge breaths in and that can be sometimes feel a bit anxiety inducing! So breathwork will be important.

What are you most looking forward to? In a way camping – won’t be my usual “Glamping”, but the stars and views… I am really hoping for that wow moment from the heights.

What does Kelly’s Heroes mean to you? Kelly’s Heroes isn’t just a charity to me; it’s a profound part of my life, one that excels the boundaries of a mere job. There simply aren’t enough words to express what this charity and the whole family mean to me. Every day, I’m reminded of the devastating loss of a beautiful, loved young woman to the cruelty of mental health struggles and despair. It’s a reality I confront each day, and it’s the driving force behind the complexity and depth of my role within the charity.

Yet, amongst the sorrow and complexity, there’s many glimmers of hope—purposes that emerge from the stories shared and the hands held. These are so many moments that give me personal meaning, having navigated my own journey of challenges and bereavements, I know only too well the despair and struggle to imagine a future.

Kelly’s Heroes represents more than just another mental health charity, it is unique in every sense, it exemplifies resilience, empathy, and unwavering support. Whether through my leadership style, my passion for raising awareness and education, or simply offering a compassionate ear, I make is a personal mission to make a difference in the lives of those who turn to us in their darkest moments.

Kelly’s Heroes is now forever woven into the very fabric of my being. It’s a constant reminder of the power of human connection, empathy, and the profound impact we can have on one another’s lives.

Link to your Just giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/sherry-adams-1709208519646