Hello to you all,

The global state of animal welfare is a matter I know many of you care deeply about. Becoming a proud ambassador to IAPWA (International Aid for the Protection & Welfare of Animals) in 2018, I have had my eyes opened to issues such as the ivory trade. This may seem a far cry from campaigning to shift away from caged hens' eggs, but the impact of these petitions (which you so wonderfully signed!) speaks volumes about the power of the public in spreading awareness and sparking change. 

Keeping things brief, after much research I decided that there must be a way to have a positive impact on the lives of these elephants and alleviate the suffering forced upon them by humans.

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lucy-gavaghan-3?utm_term=QVaEdXjxY

Several months ago, I announced the challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in aid of the Elephant Orphanage Project in Zambia. The stories of the young calves are incredibly moving, their struggle when orphaned due to the poaching of their parents exposes the cruelty of humanity… But their rescue, rehabilitation and release tells an entirely different story. 

The orphanage is committed to the vital work of species protection and has saved countless individual lives, and that is why I decided to take on a challenge as big as possible to raise as much awareness and funding as I can for such a powerful initiative. 

Although I have always attempted to keep my personal life separate to my campaigning, as I'm sure you're aware sometimes this can be difficult. The plan was to attempt the sponsored climb this October, but prolonged medical issues have made this impossible for me to consider. The support you have all shown has been utterly overwhelming, which is one of the reasons why I wanted to write this progress update. Moving ahead, the date has been pushed to mid 2020, shortly after sitting my final A-level exams. With all the positivity you’ve shown towards helping these stunning creatures, I am determined to spread even more essential awareness about their plight, and the reasons behind taking up such a challenge. 

If you are able, a donation of any amount would be infinitely appreciated. The link below will take you to the fundraising page, where further information is also available. 

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lucy-gavaghan-3?utm_term=QVaEdXjxY

Already, a staggering amount has been raised, and it would mean the world to me if the plight of these elephants could move you to make a donation.

 As ever, much love, 

Lucy xx