This September, Joanne White is taking on one of the toughest endurance challenges in the UK, the National Three Peaks Challenge, to raise money for Start a Heart Southend.
Between 5th and 7th September 2026, Jo and her friend Bernadette will climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon back-to-back, aiming to complete all three within 72 hours.
Chip in and support Jo and Bernadette to reach the top, and help Start a Heart Southend keep saving lives. Give what you can.
Why the Three Peaks
Jo’s reason for taking on the challenge is deeply personal. Last year she had radiotherapy for skin cancer, and the Three Peaks became a way of proving something to herself.
“I decided to undertake the challenge after having radiotherapy for skin cancer last year, to prove to myself I could.”
Why Start a Heart Southend
Jo’s connection to the charity started with a CPR course. “I chose Start a Heart after attending one of their CPR courses. I had no idea the defibrillators were supported and maintained by the charity, and it blew me away- the fantastic work they do. I wanted to bring awareness to the charity and support them by raising money.”
It’s a reminder of the work Start a Heart Southend does quietly in the background, keeping defibrillators across the community ready for the moment they’re needed most.
Team Jo
Jo isn’t doing this alone. Her friend Bernadette is taking on all three peaks alongside her. “Bernadette has been a great support, giving constant encouragement, and she’s as mad as me for doing the challenge.”
How training is going
The pair have been putting in serious hours on the hills around Hadleigh and Southend.
“Training is going well, but the heat is proving hard to walk in at the moment. We’re doing lots of training at Hadleigh, up and down the hills, and on a Thursday night you’ll find two sweaty middle-aged women attempting to go up and down the steps opposite Leigh train station.”
Support Jo and Bernadette
Every donation helps Start a Heart Southend maintain the defibrillators that save lives across our community. You can support Jo’s Three Peaks Challenge here:
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