Barry-based victims champion to tackle Kilimanjaro (From Barry And District News)

Barry-based victims champion to tackle Kilimanjaro

12:30pm Thursday 1st November 2012 in News By Sharon Harris

A VICTIMS' champion is preparing to join the first ever all-woman team to tackle and conquer Mount Kilimanjaro while taking a 'Loose Woman' with them!

Victims champion, Michelle Karalius who works for the anti social behaviour and hate crime team for the Vale of Glamorgan based in Barry, is aiming to contribute to Victim Support's collective 29-strong Girls On Top team effort of raising £125,000 from the challenging climb.

The 44-year-old mum-of-two, who has herself suffered domestic abuse, is set to begin her uphill adventure - together with the yet-to-be revealed Daytime TV Loose Woman and her tent mate area manager and deputy locality director for Victim Support Carolyn Hodrien - in February next year.

But she needs to put her efforts into training, raising awareness and funds, long before embarking on the gruelling hike to Uhuru Peak at 5895m.         

Michelle is training for the event, already, by hill walking and looking for a gym that can help her out with indoor altitude training, and looking at foodstuffs and products that may benefit the body.

She added: "They also told me to take Viagra!

"I'm really looking forward to it.

"It's going top be a heck of a challenge and adventure for a fantastic cause.

"I have worked for domestic violence for many people and I have been through domestic abuse and know the damage it can cause.

"It's not an easy journey to go through - it's like stepping on a roller coaster.

"It's not a pleasurable journey, but there is light at the end of the tunnel."

She added: "If I can work my way up a mountain to raise awareness and money I'll go with a big smile on my face.

"I'm looking forward to standing on that mountain having achieved one of the hardest things I am going to do in life.

"It's going to be a hell of an adventure emotionally and also physically.

"For me it's going to be a personal journey as well as a professional journey.

"I don't know whether I'm deaf, daft or stupid - probably all three.

"I'll end up with legs like tree trunks, but my bingo wings have gone away!" 

To donate, text VSMK99£(amount to donate) to 70070 and gift aid.

Alternatively, visit www.justgiving.com/Michelle-Karalius