A Carmarthenshire man has embarked on a challenging adventure, climbing Wales’s highest peaks, to honor the memory of his mother and raise funds for the Stroke Association. Aled Thomas, 45, from Gorslas near Cross Hands, successfully scaled the Welsh Three Peaks – Snowdon, Cadair Idris, and Pen y Fan – while raising an impressive £1,240 for the charity.
Anita Thomas, Aled’s mother, sadly passed away last summer at the age of 79. Originally from Drefach Felindre, she had been residing in Carmarthen. Anita had suffered a severe stroke in 2022, which affected the left side of her body and ultimately led to her passing.
Aled expressed his motivation, saying, My mother passed away in July; she had suffered a significant stroke in 2022 that affected her left side and she never recovered from. She was a nurse for 40 years and devoted mother to myself and my brother Huw, and loving wife to our dad David, who was her primary carer up until her death.
Showing his love and respect for his late mother, Aled decided to undertake the challenging climbs as a tribute to her. Reflecting on the experience, he explained, I always enjoy climbing these mountains, so this year I wanted to do it in mam’s memory and raise money for the Stroke Association at the same time.
Aled embarked on his mission, completing the three climbs over four weeks during the winter season. The wintery conditions added an additional layer of challenge to his endeavor, with snow covering the peaks, particularly at Cadair Idris. Despite the difficulties, Aled tackled each peak at his own pace, focusing on relishing the journey rather than setting a specific time target for the climbs.
Through his incredible determination and the support of friends and family, Aled managed to raise over £1,240 for the Stroke Association. Expressing his hopes for the donations, he stated, I hope the money raised will help with research and make a difference in the lives of stroke survivors.
The Stroke Association plays a critical role in supporting individuals as they transition from hospital care to everyday life post-stroke. Their services offer vital assistance to stroke survivors and their loved ones, helping them set personal recovery goals, manage their condition, and regain independence.
Aled’s inspiring feat highlights the immense love he holds for his mother and his commitment to helping others affected by strokes. By conquering the challenging peaks of Wales, he not only paid tribute to his late mother but also raised significant funds for an organization that provides vital resources and support to stroke survivors.
This extraordinary journey serves as a testament to the unwavering love between a son and his mother, as well as the resilience and determination needed to overcome personal challenges. In memory of Anita Thomas, Aled’s ascent of Wales’s highest peaks will continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of stroke survivors and their families throughout the nation.
