Conquering Aconcagua for REACT's 10th anniversary
Posted by Olivia Everett 27th January 2025 News
Estimated Reading Time: 2 mins
This January, REACT volunteer Responders Chris Hurdman and Chris Cheeseman set themselves a monumental challenge to step out of their comfort zones to make a difference by climbing Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak at 6,961 meters.
This was both a fundraising mission and a challenge to kick-off the 10th anniversary of REACT Disaster Response by raising vital funds for our life-saving work. Aconcagua was chosen by Chris and Chris as a symbol of endurance and strength, qualities embodied by REACT Responders who work tirelessly to support communities in crisis.
Turning passion into action
Chris Hurdman and Chris Cheeseman (known affectionately at REACT as Cheese) share a deep connection to REACT’s mission. Both are volunteers and passionate advocates for the transformative power of humanitarian action. Each brought their unique perspective and personal drive to the challenge.
Chris Hurdman is a veteran fundraiser who is also supporting Helen & Douglas House, a children’s hospice providing vital care for terminally ill children and their families: “I wanted to raise funds and the profiles for two charities that I volunteer for, REACT and Helen & Douglas House”.
Camp Two - Nido de Cóndores - where the sunset ignites the sky at 5,580m. Credit: Chris Cheesman 2025
For Cheese, this climb was just as personal. After years of volunteering with REACT and seeing the impact of his work on disaster-stricken communities, he wanted to honour REACT’s 10-year anniversary in a meaningful way. Aconcagua presented the perfect opportunity.
Cheese’s determination was tested when illness forced him to make the difficult decision to stop short of the summit. Reflecting from Plaza de Mulas at 5,800 meters, he spoke about the emotional toll of stepping back: “While I didn’t reach the summit, spending four days and nights at Nido de Cóndores at 5580m with the incredible support of REACT Disaster Response behind me has been deeply emotional and continually reminded me of why I was making this journey”.
“REACT is no ordinary charity for me, as they transform military expertise into humanitarian action, delivering aid to those who need it most. From earthquakes in Nepal and Turkey to hurricanes in The Bahamas, REACT has stood on the frontlines of disaster relief for a decade”.
A mountain of challenges, a mountain of impact
The climb was as much a test of physical strength as it was an emotional journey. Harsh weather, steep inclines, and high altitudes pushed Chris and Chris to their limits. Though they faced setbacks - including Cheese’s difficult decision to halt the climb due to illness - their dedication to the cause remained unwavering.
Together, they have raised an incredible £11,842 for REACT Disaster Response and Helen & Douglas House. Their climb is a symbol of resilience - not just for them, but for the communities REACT and Helen & Douglas serves.
could help fund essential deployment gear for a Responder.
could provide emergency shelter for a family.
could cover the cost to train a new REACT Responder.
Chris and Cheese have demonstrated the power of determination and teamwork. Now, they need your help to reach their fundraising goal. Visit Chris' campaign page and Cheeses' to support the cause!
Celebrating a decade of impact
Chris and Cheese's Aconcagua challenge is more than a climb; it’s a tribute to REACT’s 10 years of rapid humanitarian action. Their journey highlights the power of resilience, teamwork, and collective impact.
Together, we can ensure REACT’s next decade is even more transformative. Let’s make every step Chris and Cheese took - and every donation you make - count for the communities that need it most.