Dr Anirudh Rao, Consultant Nephrologist at Royal Liverpool University Hospital, trekked to an altitude of 17,500 feet, the equivalent climbing the Eiffel Tower 16 times, to raise vital funds for kidney research.
Reaching Everest Base Camp is just one of three gruelling challenges Dr Rao has taken on since April 2025, all to support the fight against chronic kidney disease, a lifelong and incurable illness.
Dr Rao also conquered the infamous Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, which involves a 40-kilometre hike scaling three summits in 12 hours, and completed a 100-kilometre bike ride around Manchester.
These achievements are even more remarkable given that Dr Rao suffered a serious knee injury in a skiing accident in 2024, which left him needing 11 months of intense physiotherapy.
Speaking about his experience, Dr Rao said: “I was determined to channel my recovery into something bigger than myself.
“The physical strength and mental resilience I needed to complete this challenge were just a minor reflection of that shown by my patients in their daily battle against chronic kidney disease.”
The Nephrology Service which covers the Royal, Aintree and Broadgreen hospitals, which form part of NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, provides specialist care for patients with kidney problems across the region, supporting thousands of people each year.
Previous funding from University Hospitals of Liverpool (UHL) Charity has been used to develop a mathematical model to better predict heart risks in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Dr Rao added: “The money raised will make a big difference to our patients, helping drive new and improved treatments.
“The Nephrology team strives to provide the best care possible to our communities, and this fundraising effort is another step in the right direction.
“The support I’ve received means the world, not just to me, but to the patients, families and medical teams fighting chronic kidney disease and its complications.”
Nicole Mcilveen, Partnership Fundraising Manager for UHL Charity, said: “What Dr Rao has achieved is truly amazing and serves as inspiration to many others. We’re proud to work with him in driving innovation and improving care for thousands of patients across Liverpool.”
If you would like to donate, please visit the UHL Charity website.