Climbing Kilimanjaro for Chameleon Buddies: Supporting Women in the UK and Kenya

Lisa Murphy, a Work Area Manager based at Royal Mail, Chester Mail Centre, is preparing to take on the challenge of a lifetime: trekking Mount Kilimanjaro.

This is more than just a physical feat—it’s a deeply personal mission rooted in survival, resilience, and hope.

Lisa’s journey began in July 2021, when she received a devastating diagnosis just days after giving birth to her daughter. Biopsies taken during her Caesarean Section revealed secondary cancer, with no identifiable primary source. What followed were months of uncertainty, chemotherapy, and emotional turmoil during what should have been the most joyful time of her life.

In March 2022, Lisa’s condition stabilised enough for her to undergo a complex and life-saving procedure at The Christie Hospital—cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC, a heated chemotherapy treatment administered directly into the abdominal cavity. The surgery, performed at only two hospitals in the UK, resulted in Lisa living with a stoma, but also gave her a second chance at life.

Eventually, Lisa received a diagnosis: Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP), a rare cancer originating in the appendix. Now, nearly four years later, she is disease-free, stronger than ever, and ready to give back.

Lisa will be joining 19 remarkable women on the Kilimanjaro trek, nine of whom also live with a stoma. Together, they represent the strength and resilience of those who have faced cancer, traumatic births, and life-altering surgeries. Their goal is to raise awareness and funds for Chameleon Buddies, a charity dedicated to providing stoma supplies and support to people in the UK and Kenya.

Lisa said:

“In the UK, we’re fortunate to have easy access to stoma supplies—something I now realise is a privilege. Everyone, no matter where they live, deserves the dignity and support that comes with proper care.”

The group is self-funding the trek, ensuring that 100% of donations go directly to Chameleon Buddies. Lisa hopes her story will inspire others who have faced trauma to believe in their strength and pursue their dreams.

Support Lisa’s journey and help make a global impact. 

Donations go directly to Chameleon Buddies, contributing to life-changing support for those in need:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/lisa-murphy-1711106888745?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL