Local volunteer firefighter Lauren Thompson is preparing to represent Taupō in the annual Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge next month, raising vital funds for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC).
On Saturday, May 24th, Thompson will climb 1,103 steps to the 51st floor of Auckland's Sky Tower while carrying 25 kilograms of firefighting equipment, including level 2 gear and breathing apparatus.
"This will be my fourth year going up to the Auckland Sky Tower," Thompson told Lake FM. "I'm basically fundraising for an amazing place called the Leukaemia and Blood Cancers, raising money for adults and for children who unfortunately go through some challenges with this condition."
Every day, eight children and adults in New Zealand are diagnosed with a blood cancer like leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma. LBC is the national charity dedicated to supporting these patients and their families—support that can last months or even years. The organisation receives very little government funding, making fundraising events like the Sky Tower Challenge crucial.
As the sole Taupō representative this year, Thompson has been training locally using the Taupō bungee stairs and Acacia Bay stairs, along with strength training using a 22 kg weighted vest.
"It is very humid inside the middle of the Sky Tower and there's no air conditioning until about level 44. So very, very hot conditions," she explained.
Thompson has set a fundraising target of $1,700, which would secure her preferential entry for next year's event. She acknowledges the current economic challenges but welcomes any contribution.
"I'm happy with whatever anyone can donate," she said. "We live in a very cool community."
Thompson also participates in a non-fundraising 9/11 memorial climb at the Sky Tower each September.
Donations can be made online at https://firefighterschallenge.org.nz/lauren-thompson, with 100% of funds going directly to Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand. The process is simple, fast and secure, and donors will receive a tax-deductible receipt by email.
Meet Lauren and see a fire appliance at The Warehouse in Taupō, Saturday April 19th, 10am-1pm!
