Father to Ascend Kilimanjaro in Daughter’s Memory

Alex Conley is preparing to climb Africa’s highest mountain to raise funds for two charities that hold deep personal significance for him. Acorns Children’s Hospice provided care for his daughter, Isabelle, who “passed away in our arms” at the age of 14 on 9 September 2022. The Teenage Cancer Trust offered support and uplifted Isabelle’s spirits during her hospital treatment for a brain tumour. Mr. Conley’s charity expedition, scheduled for 7 December, will see him undertake every step in Isabelle’s memory, accompanied by eight friends from Burbage, located in Hinckley, Leicestershire. According to Mr. Conley, Isabelle was an energetic, healthy, happy, and vibrant teenager, known for her contagious smile and laughter. She had a passion for school, playing volleyball, Ju-jitsu, and cherished holidays. However, in December 2021, Isabelle’s health deteriorated significantly, manifesting in headaches, blurred vision, vomiting, and poor balance. Following the results of a scan, Mr. Conley stated, “Our world flipped upside down.” The scan revealed a growth in Isabelle’s brain, which was surgically removed the following day at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. “Shortly after, we heard the words no parent should hear – Isabelle had cancer,” he recounted. Mr. Conley explained that the tumour recurred within weeks after the surgery, leading to a dramatic alteration in “the prognosis.” He described Isabelle as “brave” as she underwent months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, enduring the associated side effects. He added, “The stuff of nightmares that no child should endure, but she picked herself up after each setback even more fiercely than the last.” Since Isabelle’s death, Mr. Conley has engaged in fundraising for the two charities, accumulating £10,000 to date. “I’ve got a massive group of friends who are willing to come with me on this journey,” he shared. He admitted, “I initially said no to Kilimanjaro. I thought the task was probably a bit too much.” However, he added, “But we’ve been training and looking forward to it, and hope we can all get up there without the altitude problem.” “We miss Isabelle every second. Her bravery, independence, kindness and determination will always be an inspiration to us,” he expressed. He concluded, “We live each day for her and her brother, who is still being supported by Acorns.” Chris Topp, a friend of Mr. Conley for over 30 years, commented, “We’ve been to every single charity event Alex has had. So, why not this one as well?” Topp further stated, “We can all spur each other on and try and get to the end together.” Another friend, Tom Knapp, remarked, “I’m always up for outdoorsy adventures, but this one’s really special. “Alex’s had a tough time, and we just want to support a mate. “When Kilimanjaro was suggested, I thought, what a great way of making something positive from a really bad, negative situation.”” Mr. Conley extended his gratitude to his friends Jamie Hunt, Andrew Jones, Thomas Clarke, John Shaw, Gerry Wright, Tom Knapp, James Wileman, and Chris Topp for their support, as well as to individuals who made kind donations. To follow BBC Leicester, visit them on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be sent to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.