Climbing for Greg: Brother takes on Mount Kilimanjaro in memory of sibling lost to anaphylaxis

When Josh begins his ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro later this year in aid of Anaphylaxis UK, every step he takes up Africa’s highest peak will be in memory of his brother Greg, who tragically died in December 2024 after an anaphylactic reaction to a kiwi fruit.

The shock of Greg’s passing aged just 33 years old, Josh says, “left the family completely heartbroken.” Husband to Alice and daddy to two young children, Greg was the quiet soul of the family — incredibly friendly and gentle. “He was never the centre of attention, but quietly confident in his own skin,” Josh recalls. “He was always a bit alternative, always breaking the mould at school.”

Growing up, the brothers bickered as siblings do, but adulthood brought them closer. “We went from just brothers to friends,” Josh says. “We loved spending time together, although I was always the little brother — and Greg took every chance he could to jibe me about it.” 

That sense of humour and warmth is what Josh will carry with him up the mountain. “I expect Greg would think I am crazy taking on this challenge. I definitely inherited the adventurous gene, in comparison to Greg, who was happiest when with family and friends.” 

A challenge inspired by loss 

Climbing Kilimanjaro had long been on Josh’s personal bucket list, but life — as it often does — kept getting in the way. Greg’s sudden death changed that. 

“When Greg passed, it really put things into perspective,” he says. “Life doesn’t stop for anyone. If you want to do something, now’s the time.” That realisation became the push he needed to finally sign up for the climb. 

Josh chose to raise money for Anaphylaxis UK — a cause that now feels deeply personal. “Anaphylaxis UK was an obvious choice given the circumstances. If the money I raise can play a small part in helping other families from experiencing the same thing we did, then the struggle will be worth it.” 

The journey to the summit 

Described as one of the world’s mightiest charity challenges, this demanding, high‑altitude, 11-day expedition follows the beautiful Machame Route, approach Kilimanjaro from the south. Setting off on 17 September, Josh will trek through tropical rainforest, moorland and glaciers toward Uhuru Peak, the highest point. 

Training for the summit has begun. Josh is no stranger to physical challenges; a regular runner, swimmer, and gym‑goer, he’s been building strength and cardio through a mix of all three. He recently completed the South Downs Half Marathon and plans to spend the summer hiking across the UK and Ireland. 

But even with his fitness, one thing still looms large: altitude. 

“I’m confident in my physical abilities,” he says. “It’s the altitude that concerns me. How do you train your body to perform at 5,000 metres?” 

Before he departs, Josh expects a low‑key farewell with family. “By then I’ll be so focused on the challenge that I won’t be in the mood for a big get‑together,” he says. “We’ll save that for when I return.” 

Following Josh up the mountain 

Everyone at Anaphylaxis UK has expressed deep gratitude to Josh for taking on such a demanding challenge in aid of our charity. This climb is far more than a physical feat. For us, Josh’s ascent is a powerful reminder of the love between brothers, the fragility of life, and the extraordinary strength it takes to turn grief into purpose.  

We will be following Josh’s journey closely and sharing updates along the way. Please help turn his tribute to Greg into meaningful change. If you wish to support Josh, please visit his fundraising page and follow his progress as he takes on Mount Kilimanjaro.