On a weekend marked by fierce Scottish weather, five-year-old Faye Moffat from Prestonpans, East Lothian, achieved what many adults would consider an impossible feat: she climbed Ben Nevis—Britain’s highest mountain—braving snow, ice, and a relentless blizzard, all to raise money for the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. The journey, which unfolded between November 23 and 24, 2025, was not only a test of endurance but also a deeply personal mission to support the hospital that saved the lives of her cousin Owen and friend Lucy.
Faye’s adventure began in the early hours of Saturday morning. According to BBC News, she and her father Craig set off in darkness at 7:00 am, both laden with overnight gear. Their plan was ambitious: climb partway up Ben Nevis, set up camp, and then make a final push to the summit through some of the harshest conditions the mountain could throw at them. “She faced snow, ice, a blizzard at the summit and a long descent in the dark – but she never once gave up,” Craig shared, visibly proud of his daughter’s determination.
The climb itself was no gentle stroll. The pair battled deep snow and ferocious winter winds, donning crampons to navigate the icy slopes. The weather was unforgiving, and as they approached the summit, a blizzard set in. Yet, as Glasgow Live reported, Faye powered through, reaching the top at 3:00 pm on Sunday, November 24. For most adults, these conditions would have been daunting enough to turn back. In fact, Craig noted, “There were adults turning back but she just didn’t give up.”
The descent proved almost as challenging as the climb. Heavy rain set in, and much of the journey back to their tent was completed in darkness, with only their headtorches to light the way. The entire round trip took about 10 hours, a grueling test of stamina for anyone—let alone a five-year-old. Yet, as Craig recounted on social media, “Faye went to school this morning as if she had just went to the shops yesterday. Meanwhile I’m hobbling around.”
Faye’s motivation for undertaking such a monumental challenge was simple and heartfelt. On their JustGiving page, she wrote: “My cousin Owen and friend Lucy are both alive because of the hospital and charity. I want to raise pennies to help buy things to help children who aren’t well. I have done other fundraisers, including climbing my first Munro last winter without help from my Daddy, but this will be my hardest adventure. My Daddy says if we don’t give up we can do anything so I won’t give up. Please help me raise pennies for the boys and girls who need help.”
The fundraising effort quickly gained traction. By the end of their expedition, the JustGiving page had raised around £1,500 including gift aid, as reported by Edinburgh Live and Daily Record. The generosity of donors left the Moffat family “blown away,” with Craig expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed. “If anyone has any spare pennies, it would mean the world to Faye. The hospital does incredible work for children and families all across Scotland.”
The Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity supports more than 500 babies, children, and young people every day across Scotland. For Faye, the connection to the hospital is deeply personal. Her cousin Owen and friend Lucy both faced life-threatening health challenges as infants. Lucy, for example, was born with half a heart and required surgery shortly after birth. The hospital and its charity provided the crucial care that allowed both children to thrive. “My cousin Owen and friend Lucy are both alive because of the hospital and charity,” Faye explained—a sentiment echoed by her father and family throughout the campaign.
This wasn’t Faye’s first foray into fundraising. Last winter, she climbed her first Munro without help—a significant achievement for someone so young. But by all accounts, Ben Nevis was her toughest adventure yet. Craig summed up his admiration for his daughter’s spirit: “I’m so proud of Faye for wanting to support such a great charity. She now has an understanding of the difference we can all make.”
The story of Faye’s climb quickly spread across Scotland, striking a chord with people from all walks of life. The image of a small girl in a bright pink jacket, smiling through the snow, became a symbol of determination and hope. “She’s such a small lass with the biggest of hearts!” Craig wrote, adding that Faye’s example inspired not only him but many others who followed their journey online. According to BBC News, Faye’s story has already encouraged more people to donate and share the campaign, amplifying its impact far beyond the original goal.
As the donations continued to roll in, the Moffats made it clear that every penny would go toward supporting children in need. “Any spare pennies will make a real difference to so many kids,” Craig emphasized, urging people to spread the word. The hospital’s role in the lives of families across Scotland cannot be overstated, with hundreds of young patients relying on its services every single day.
Faye’s climb was more than just a personal triumph or a fundraising effort—it was a reminder of the power of community, resilience, and compassion. In an age when headlines often focus on conflict and division, the story of a five-year-old battling the elements for a cause greater than herself resonated deeply. It’s not every day that a child becomes a beacon for charitable giving, but Faye’s determination—and her refusal to give up—captured the hearts of many.
“She now has an understanding of the difference we can all make,” Craig said, reflecting on the lessons learned during their journey. For Faye, the climb up Ben Nevis was just the beginning. As her story continues to inspire, the impact of her efforts will be felt by countless children and families who rely on the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity for hope and healing.
Sometimes, the smallest climbers make the biggest difference. Faye’s adventure stands as a testament to what’s possible when courage, kindness, and community come together—no matter the weather.
