Phil & Nick Take on Pico de Orizaba:
The Sixth of Seven Continent Challenges for Caring Matters Now
In October 2025, Phil and Nick embarked on their sixth challenge in the ’Seven Challenges in Seven Continents’ series for Caring Matters Now. In a breathtaking display of grit, heart and determination, they have conquered one of North America’s highest and most formidable peaks – Pico de Orizaba. Both Phil and Nick are fathers to sons who were born with Congenital Melanocytic Naevus (CMN), and this climb was a personal and physical challenge undertaken to raise awareness and support for all those affected by the condition.
Getting There – A Rocky Start
After a 24-hour journey, Phil and Nick finally arrived in Mexico City. Despite the initial setback of Nick’s missing luggage, spirits were high and the pair took a brief detour to visit the ancient city of Teotihuacan, soaking in the history and culture before heading into the mountains.
La Malinche – A Harsh Introduction to Altitude
Their first acclimatisation climb was La Malinche, standing at 4,461m. The team set off at 4am, facing steep forest trails, scrambling sections, and a wet, muddy descent in Mexican sleet.
Nick, an experienced climber, shared; “From my perspective it was one of the hardest days I have had on a mountain.”
The climb took around 10 hours in total, and the physical toll was immediate. Phil and Nick were exhausted and looking forward to some down time, but Nick had to separate from the group to retrieve his missing luggage – a 6.5-hour round trip with one of the guides.
Iztaccihuatl – Cold, Wind, and Ice
Next came Iztaccihuatl, a 5,260m peak known for its technical difficulty and extreme conditions. The team began their ascent at midnight, reaching the summit around 10:15am after more than 10 hours of climbing.
They said; “Crossing the exposed snow and ice-covered glacier, roped up with crampons and ice axes was incredible if not a little scary.”
The descent was even more punishing. Fatigue led to falls, and Nick suffered a face-first impact with a boulder, resulting in a broken tooth and facial cuts. Despite the injuries and exhaustion, the team made it back to base camp safely, though their fellow climber, Jose, was severely affected by altitude and fatigue.
Pico de Orizaba – The Final Push
After a short rest, Phil and Nick headed to Pico de Orizaba base camp to prepare for the final climb. Unfortunately, Phil became ill with a stomach bug just before the summit attempt. He started the climb but had to withdraw after four hours due to worsening symptoms.
Nick continued the ascent with guide, Poncho, navigating the infamous “Labyrinth” boulder field before tackling the steep glacier in freezing temperatures and high winds. The 45-degree+ slopes, biting wind and approximately -20°C temperatures made this extremely challenging.
After 8.5 hours of climbing, Nick reached the summit at 8:30am. Though conditions prevented a photo with the CMN flag, he proudly wore his Caring Matters Now t-shirt at the top.
“The views from the summit were spectacular, but due to the cold and wind we had to get on and off asap.”
Back to Base – Safe and Successful
Everyone made it off the mountain safely, and Phil was feeling much better by the time they returned to their hostel. The team celebrated with a well-earned beer, before beginning their journey home.
This climb was a powerful reminder of the resilience and commitment behind Caring Matters Now. Phil and Nick’s determination, even in the face of illness, injury, and extreme conditions, reflects the strength of the CMN community and the importance of the cause they’re climbing for.
Challenge 6: North America ✅
With Pico de Orizaba successfully climbed, we’re proud to mark the completion of Challenge number 6 – North America. A huge thank you to Phil and Nick for their incredible effort, resilience, and commitment to the cause. Through this challenge alone, they’ve raised an amazing £7,423 for Caring Matters Now – helping us to continue to support families affected by CMN, raise global awareness of CMN and fund vital research.
It is still not too late to donate to Nick and Phil’s fundraising page: Caring Matters Now – UK: CMN Pico De Orizaba 2025
