For Britt Pratten, a Franklin local now living in Geneva, Switzerland, adventure has always been part of life. Born and raised in Buckland, she now works in project management for an Italian cruise line. When she’s not at work, Britt can usually be found exploring the outdoors — whether it’s hiking in the Swiss Alps, discovering new places, or simply soaking up nature.
This September, Britt will take on her greatest physical challenge yet: climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 metres. She’s doing it not just for the adventure, but with a powerful purpose — to raise funds for Franklin Hospice in memory of her friend, Laura Orr.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Challenge
Britt will begin her trek on 19 September 2025, taking the scenic Lemosho Route. Over eight days, she and her friend Christina will cover about 70 kilometres, moving through five distinct climate zones, from lush rainforest to the icy summit. While not a technical climb, the challenge will test her stamina, resilience, and mindset.
“I’ve never climbed to this kind of altitude before,” Britt admits. “Altitude sickness is what I’m most nervous about — if it strikes, that’s the end of the climb. But I’m excited for the whole journey, from learning about Tanzanian culture to spending quality time with a good friend. Reaching the summit will be the ultimate cherry on top.”
Honouring Laura
For Britt, this climb is deeply personal. Both her dear friend Laura and her grandfather Keith were cared for by Franklin Hospice in the final stages of their lives.
“My dear friend Laura received end-of-life care in the comfort of her home,” Britt says. “The compassion and professionalism shown by Caitlin, Sharon, and the Franklin Hospice team brought comfort not only to her, but to all of us who loved her. My grandfather Keith also received care from Franklin Hospice, and the support provided to him and our family was equally invaluable. I’ll always be grateful for that.”
Choosing Franklin Hospice as her fundraising cause was a way to give back. “After speaking with Laura’s family, we agreed this was the right way to pay it forward — so other families can receive the same support, compassion, and dignity.”
Carrying Laura’s Spirit to the Summit
Britt and Laura shared a childhood filled with adventure — eeling, camping, even filming their own version of The Blair Witch Project. Climbing Kilimanjaro feels like a continuation of that adventurous spirit.
“This climb is one way of honouring Laura’s memory, carrying her brave energy with me to the summit, and helping support Franklin Hospice in her name. I know she’ll be with me in spirit, walking every step of the way.”
A Goal as High as the Mountain
Britt has set herself a fundraising target that matches Kilimanjaro’s altitude: $5,895. Every dollar raised will go directly to supporting Franklin Hospice’s work in the community.
“I trust the funds will help Franklin Hospice continue providing care and comfort to people in the Franklin area facing the toughest times,” she says. “I hope it means no family ever feels alone on that journey.”
Her fundraising page is now live at givealittle.co.nz/cause/in-memory-of-laura-climbing-mt-kilimanjaro until 30 September 2025.
Living With Purpose
Reflecting on her journey so far, Britt says: “Having lived and worked in seven countries over the past decade, I’ve realised that a sense of community is everything. Life is too short not to give back, look out for each other, and live every moment.”
As she prepares to set foot on Africa’s highest mountain, she carries with her a message of resilience, gratitude, and love — and the memories of Laura, whose spirit will help guide her to the summit.
Britt adds: “I would like to thank the Franklin Hospice team for the incredible work they do, and to everyone who has generously donated and supported this cause — Laus would be humbled. This is exactly the kind of care Franklin Hospice provides every day, supporting patients and their families to live every moment with dignity, comfort, and compassion.”
As one of Laura’s favourite singers, Ed Sheeran, says, “we keep this love in a photograph” — a reminder that the memories of those we have loved and lost, and the connections we’ve shared, live on.