As part of his preparation for the expedition, Bobby changed his medication. He currently attends the Royal Melbourne Hospital once a month for treatment, receiving double doses of Rituximab.

Although there are some significant side effects, the benefits of the medication are numerous. The fact that once he has completed his course the treatment can last up to six months is a major benefit. His previous treatment lasted four to six weeks, this would not have covered the duration of Bobby’s planned expedition.

So why climb Everest? The most famous answer to this question came from climber George Mallory: “because it is there.” Though he was likely responding in frustration after being asked the same question dozens of times, his answer cuts to the heart of the matter. Bobby wants to make the climb to raise funds to support people with a disability and awareness about the issues they face.