Yasmin’s Challenge: From Chaddesden to Everest

Yasmin Tassi, age 23, from Chaddesden, has completed the extraordinary challenge of reaching Everest Base Camp, raising over £800 in support of her local charity, Treetops Hospice.

From facing huntsman spiders in her accommodation to navigating treacherous glaciers, Yasmin’s journey was anything but predictable.

The adventure began in Lukla, home to one of the world’s most dangerous airports, with its steep 12 per cent incline runway. Severe weather caused numerous delays before the trek had even begun, with cancelled flights leaving Yasmin and her team stranded.

At Namche Bazaar, the group acclimatised to the altitude and caught their first glimpse of Everest – a breathtaking sight but a grounding reminder of the immense journey still ahead.

The climb to Tengboche proved especially gruelling, with relentless uphill trails and harsh conditions. Extreme weather slowed the team’s progress significantly, making the ascent even more demanding.

Reflecting on the toughest moments, Yasmin said: “At one point, when the weather got really bad, it was touch‑and‑go. If you put one foot wrong, you could literally fall miles down a glacier.”

Yasmin’s decision to take on the challenge was driven by a family connection. Her mum’s work at Treetops Hospice’s Chaddesden charity shop gave her first-hand insight into the charity’s impact, motivating her to dedicate the climb to supporting the hospice.

“I chose Treetops because they’re local, and I already knew about the amazing work they do thanks to my mum working in one of their shops. Climbing Everest was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I knew straight away that I wanted to use it to support Treetops.”

Claire Mathias, Relationships Manager at Treetops Hospice, said: “Yasmin’s fundraising efforts will make a lasting difference to our patients and their families. Thanks to her dedication, we can continue delivering specialist nursing care to communities across central and southern Derbyshire.”

After a 12-day trek filled with challenges and triumphs, Yasmin proudly reached Everest Base Camp, helping fund 8 nights of care for Treetops’ patients facing end‑of‑life or life limiting illnesses.