Rhys's dad, Howell Phillips, was diagnosed with terminal bone cancer in November 2016. His prognosis at the time was that he would have 9-18months to live. Today he is still here and fighting his bone cancer. In honor of his father and to make a difference, Rhys took on a challenge of epic proportions.
For his challenge, Rhys did something different and created the 'Triple H Challenge'. All based around his dad, it represents Howell's three homes - the beloved Rhondda, Plymouth and his spiritual home The Snowdonia National Park. Rhys covered roughly 450 miles by foot and on bike. Walking the Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks as well as walking across Brecon Beacons from the Rhondda Valleys and finally scaling Snowdon to finish with a celebratory Penderyn at the top.
When asked about the challenge, Rhys said:
We’ve been amazed by the overwhelming support of friends, family and people who have been caught up in the hype surrounding the challenge.
It’s genuinely been an incredible experience from start to finish, discovering new places and challenging myself both physically and mentally for 9 days. It’s been even more of a challenge with my dad being in hospital during the whole time I was away, having had a decline in his condition. This has been fuel for the fire that has driven and spurred me on each day, knowing my dad is with me every step of the way and being actively interested in the challenge from his hospital bed. I know it’s given him something to focus on as well as my mam and the rest of the family. Summiting Snowdon on Monday was unreal, couldn’t quite believe I was there and it was made even more special as I had a group of friends and family join me for the last leg. Truly Special moments on the peak with my sister and my wife, battling through some pretty horrendous conditions. Will treasure the photos and memories forever as I’m sure my parents will too. The challenge has brought people together in different ways, something I know my dad would love and was always a major factor in doing the challenge.
With regards to the amount raised, it’s just phenomenal, I never expected to reach that sum of money and have been humbled by people’s kindness and generosity, especially during these very uncertain times. I know what that money can do and am proud to have been able to do something to help. The Triple H Challenge has been more than a physical test, it’s been a journey, I've gone through a huge range of emotions and have learnt a lot about myself too. Just want to say a massive heartfelt thank you everyone who has been involved in whatever way and to those who have donated. You are all heroes.
Finally the Triple H mantra and favourite saying of my father “if you try you might, if you don’t you won’t” - Rings true in all aspects of what has been achieved this past 9 days by everyone. By doing, by trying, has made Triple H an amazing experience and I’m happy that it’s helped to raise awareness and funds for such a worthwhile cause.
Diolch / thanks!
Rhys truly went above and beyond with his challenge, Mat Cottle-Shaw, Head of Fundraising & Communications at the Bone Cancer Research Trust said:
We are incredibly grateful to Rhys for taking on such a unique and incredible challenge. The amount he has raised is simply outstanding and will make in incredible difference to bone cancer patients and their families. We send our best wishes to Rhys and his dad as he continues to battle bone cancer and a sincere thank you to everyone who has supported Rhys and his family.
If you would like to donate and support Rhys's challenge. please click here.
Some more snaps from Rhys's epic challenge...
