After two years of gruelling physical training, Michael Mitten, CEO of pump motor repair company Houghton International, is about to begin an incredible expedition to the South Pole. Pushing himself to the extreme, Mitten’s journey will cover 60 nautical miles (111km) over the course of seven to 10 days. He will battle extreme temperatures ranging from -25°C to -50°C, putting his physical and mental strength to test.
The purpose of this adventure is to raise as much money as possible in aid of the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society, a charity that helped his mother fight the disease for 18 years before she passed away in 2016. Through trekking to the Antarctic in memory of his mother, Mitten hopes to hit his fundraising target of £50,000 for this noble and vital cause. As well as raising funds, Mitten wants to boost awareness of this devastating disease, so that every family affected can access the support they need.
Showing impressive perseverance, this is actually the second expedition of this type Mitten has embarked upon. In 2009, he ventured to the North Pole in memory of his father, raising an incredible £40,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support. The determination Mitten has shown in memory of both of his parents, the founders of his company Houghton International, is truly inspirational. In his eight-day unsupported 2009 trek, Mitten and his guide Doug Stoup covered 80 nautical miles, navigating through extreme circumstances. The pair encountered some close calls, including one fall through the ice.
His determination has been proven before, but Michael Mitten will face new, extreme challenges when he embarks on this mission on the 4th December. If he succeeds, he will become one of the few people in history to reach both the North Pole and the South Pole on foot. Regular updates regarding is progress will be provided, as Houghton International and other Tyneside companies continue to rally support for this outgoing CEO.
When asked how he felt coming face to face with this mission, Mitten commented: “I am thrilled to be trekking to the South Pole in aid of the MS Society. This will be one of the toughest, yet most exhilarating challenges of my life. Knowing that the money I raise will be used to help fund research and help support for those affected by multiple sclerosis is the best part of all.
“I’m embarking on this challenge for the MS Society because I really believe in their cause and the way they supported and cared for my mum after her diagnosis. The charity helps over 100,000 people living with MS in the UK with a raft of services tailored to their specific needs, making a real difference to their lives.”
As well as staying tuned in to his progress, you can get involved by raising awareness of MS and donating to Mitten’s chosen charity. To donate now visit Poles Apart 2019 website.
