82-year-old wins Just Giving award after raising over £80,000 in honour of his wife

When 82-year-old Nick Gardner’s wife, Janet, was diagnosed with dementia, and later osteoporosis, he knew he had to do something to make a difference.

In March 2020, when Nick turned 80 years old, he embarked on the challenge of climbing all of Scotland’s 282 Munros. In 1,000 days, he battled through all weather conditions to raise over £80,000 for the ROS and Alzheimer's Scotland. As well as raising funds for both charities, the challenge gave Nick a focus, which was beneficial for his mental health.

On Monday 10 October, to mark his momentous challenge, Nick was presented with the Endurance Fundraiser of the year award at the annual JustGiving Awards in London.

Every year, JustGiving Awards provides a chance to celebrate the inspiring people who have used the platform to raise funds for good causes, making the world a better place. The 2022 JustGiving Awards was hosted by Radio 1's Vick Hope and Jordan North.

At the ceremony, Nick said:

“I am so pleased to be able to accept this award from you all, and many thanks to everyone that has supported me on my challenge. I find this an unbelievably surreal experience. Climbing the Munros was surreal, but this has beaten it hands down! I’m so grateful to everyone and thank you to JustGiving – thank you very much!”

Every minute in the UK a bone breaks because of osteoporosis, a condition which causes bones to lose strength and break more easily. Over three million people are living with this life-changing disease and the ROS is the UK’s largest national charity dedicated to improving bone health and beating osteoporosis.

Joining Nick and his daughter Sally on the evening of the award was Jamie Grier, Director of Development at the ROS. Jamie said:

“I couldn’t be more honoured to have been there with Nick when he received this award. His challenge not only shows immense grit but also great selflessness to take a difficult situation and turn it into something positive for others.

“Fundraising is crucial for the ROS, fuelling pioneering research, powering policy-changing campaign work and ensuring our vital Helpline continues to be there – for anyone who needs it. His challenge is incredibly inspiring and the money he’s raised to support people living with osteoporosis will change lives.”

Find more about Nick’s challenge here.