11 Sep 2026
A 19-year-old St Albans climber is embarking on an extraordinary journey to China’s rugged Sichuan region this month to tackle the remote Mount Wukuchu.
If successful, Andrew Fairclough could become the first recorded British climber to reach the peak, all while managing a rare and potentially life-threatening condition called exercise-induced anaphylaxis.
Andrew is undertaking the gruelling expedition to raise vital funds and awareness for two charities close to his heart: Anaphylaxis UK and Cancer Research UK.
For Andrew, physical exertion carries serious health risks. Exercise-induced anaphylaxis causes physical activity to trigger serious, life-threatening allergic reactions.
“After my first reaction, there was a lot of anxiety around it,” Andrew explained. “I was quite scared to do things for a while because I didn’t know if it would happen again.”
Working closely with healthcare professionals, Andrew has prepared a comprehensive medical management plan for the climb. This includes carrying multiple adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs), careful research into allergen exposure at altitude and use of altitude training masks, and adapting much of his training to indoor environments.
Andrew hopes his journey will inspire others living with serious allergies.
“Don’t give up on your dreams. Stick to your management plan, get the healthcare support you need, but don’t let allergies stop you from achieving what you want to achieve.”
Mount Wukuchu, located in the remote Hengduan range of western Sichuan, offers a severe physical test. The final summit push is expected to demand up to 23 continuous hours of ascending and descending in freezing, high-altitude conditions.
Andrew’s preparation has included intensive weighted-pack Stairmaster sessions, strength and incline training, and mountaineering in Snowdonia and Scotland.
“When I reach the summit, I know I’ll feel relief, but also pride. Proud of myself, proud of everyone around me, and thankful for everyone who helped make this happen,” Andrew added.
To follow Andrew’s expedition or donate to his fundraiser, click here.
