A Bradford man has scaled the heights of Mount Everest’s base camp, raising more than £8,900 for Yorkshire Cancer Research in a tribute to his late best friend.
Sandeep Gupta, a member of the Hindu Cultural Society of Bradford, took on the grueling 14-day expedition in memory of his best friend, Sonu, who passed away from bowel cancer in 2024. Determined to honour Sonu’s legacy, Sandeep braved the harsh Himalayan conditions, battling freezing temperatures and high altitudes to reach 5,000 metres above sea level.
“The trek was physically exhausting, and it took a while for my body to adjust to the altitude,” Sandeep said. “There were moments when I wanted to give up, but I kept thinking of Sonu. That thought alone gave me the strength to push forward. Reaching base camp was an overwhelming and emotional achievement.”
Sandeep’s fundraising efforts didn’t stop at Everest. He also helped raise an additional £2,300 through the Hindu Cultural Society of Bradford’s annual Diwali celebration, which brought together over 400 people for a night of music, dance, and food.
Kamal Sharma, Managing Director of the Hindu Cultural Society, highlighted the importance of the cause: “Diwali is the festival of lights, and we wanted to use this opportunity to bring hope to those affected by cancer. Yorkshire is one of the hardest-hit regions, and we are committed to supporting research that can save lives in our communities.”
Yorkshire Cancer Research welcomed the donation, with Chief Executive Dr Kathryn Scott praising the efforts of Sandeep and the Hindu Cultural Society. “We are incredibly grateful for their support. The funds raised will help researchers and cancer experts develop new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer, bringing us closer to our vision of a Yorkshire free from cancer.”
Each week, 50 people in Bradford are diagnosed with cancer. The funds raised by Sandeep and the Hindu Cultural Society will contribute to pioneering research and life-saving services aimed at tackling cancer in Yorkshire’s communities.
Sandeep’s journey to Everest began in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, before flying to the remote town of Lukla, known as the gateway to Everest. Accompanied by a fellow trekker and guided by two Nepalese experts, he endured extreme weather and oxygen-thin air to complete his mission.
Reflecting on his achievement, Sandeep said: “Nothing compares to the feeling of reaching base camp. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but knowing it was for such an important cause made every step worth it.”
The Hindu Cultural Society of Bradford, which runs the largest Hindu temple in the North of England, continues to champion community causes. Plans are already underway for further fundraising initiatives to support vital cancer research.
For those inspired by Sandeep’s journey and looking to support Yorkshire Cancer Research, more information is available at www.yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk/events-fundraising.
