Sahara
Feb
Ken East is a man on a mission. Next year, he’ll be walking 50 kilometres of the Sahara Desert. And it’s all for a good cause
At his north Cardiff home, Ken East looks out at the early spring rain.
“It’ll be a bit different this time next year,” he says.
And that’s because in 2027, Ken will be heading to Africa to raise money for a local children’s hospital.
“I’ve been supporting Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital charity for the past few years. It goes back to when I first started being Father Christmas in the Ikea Grotto and I was dispatched to visit the children in the wards.
“That day was a real eye-opener for me and ever since, I’ve been determined to do what I can to help them.
For Ken, his mission is also a personal one.
“My grandson is only three years old and he needs regular care at a hospital in London. If I can do anything to help the children locally, it’ll mean that it’ll make life a little easier for them.”
Ken’s concern for others has grown from a 40 year career as a primary school teacher. Over the years, he’s supported various charities to help those in need. But this time, he’s taken on a challenge that even he considers the toughest.
“Even though I’m now 71 years of age, plus recently had a knee replacement, I have volunteered to take on the 50k Sahara Trek Challenge in 2027.
“As a prelude to the main event itself, I’ll be undertaking other activities in the lead up to the challenge. Over the next few months, I’ll be doing 50 reps of 10 gym machines, 50 widths of the local gym pool, 50 holes of golf, plus 50k of cycle riding. I’m viewing these as warm-ups to the Sahara.”
Ken has set himself a target of raising over £2,000 for the charity.
“The Noah’s Ark Charity’s mission is to create brighter todays and better tomorrows, ensuring the best possible care and experience for the children of Wales. Every year, 90,000 children from across the country receive specialist and often life-saving treatment at the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales in Cardiff. It’s only right that I can do what I can for them, while I have my own health and abilities.”
Ken is hoping that a good run-up to the event will allow him to build physically and mentally for the challenge ahead. More importantly for him though, it will mean that his efforts will bring smiles to those who need them.
“Every pound I raise will help the charity continue their amazing work and make a life-changing difference for children and their families.
“I’m grateful to those who have already offered to help, including local businesses Calon Rhiwbeina, Rhiwbina Tennis Club, and Haines Contractors. I’m still looking for volunteers to join me on my Sahara Trek. But if you can’t, you can still help by donating to my cause.
You can find Ken’s fundraising page at fundraise.noahsarkcharity.org/fundraisers/keneast/sahara-trek. If you would like to go with Ken to the Sahara, contact Sam Barnard at samb@noahsarkcharity.org
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