Mount Kilimanjaro: Ex-soldier carries 30kg fridge up Africa's highest peak to highlight mental health
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A former army fitness instructor has become the “first person in history” to climb Mount Kilimanjaro while carrying a FRIDGE.
Michael Copeland, from Stafford, has shared his epic adventures in a series of video diary clips on social media.
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Hide AdFridge represents 'burden' of mental health
Impressive footage shows how Michael scaled the 19,340ft (5,895m) dormant volcano with a 30kg (4.7st) kitchen appliance strapped to his back.
He reached the summit of Africa's tallest mountain on Monday (25/3) after an exhausting seven-day hike.
On reaching the iconic Uhuru Peak sign, Michael told his cheering supporters: “Day seven and I am the first man in history to climb Kilimanjaro whilst carrying a fridge to represent the burden of poor mental health.”
Men afraid to talk mental health
The former Grenadier Guard took on the unusual feat to raise money for Mind - but also to get men talking about their mental health.
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Hide AdHe added that the fridge was a big 'talking point' that encouraged conversation.
'It's awkward and heavy on your shoulders'
He said: “Everyone always asks the same question: ‘Why a fridge?’
“But the answer is always the same. It’s not about the fridge, it could have been any very awkward object. It’s what it represents – mental health.
"It’s very awkward and very heavy on your shoulders, and it’s awkward to talk about.
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Hide Ad“So the fridge is a way to get people talking and opening up about their mental health.”
Struggles with mental health after leaving army
The dad-of-two began his campaign to raise awareness about mental health two years ago after climbing Snowdon while carrying a fridge full of beer.
He said he felt “lost” after leaving the army in 2007 and struggled with obsessive-compulsive tendencies.
Michael added: “My message is you’re not weak if you speak up about mental health.
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Hide Ad“I chose Kilimanjaro because it’s one of the highest mountains which can be climbed without ropes or other equipment.
“The competitive spirit I got from the Army has never left me.
“I’ve been the fridge man for two years, but I’ve always used physical challenges to overcome my own insecurities.
“When I get in nature and when I exercise it makes me feel good.”
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