October 2018

Model climbs mountain for skin disease research

Miss Europe World 2018, Luissa Burton, has successfully climbed Europe’s tallest mountain in aid of the British Skin Foundation alongside adventure filmmaker Aaron Shoemaker of Wanderlost Productions.

The adventurous pair tackled Mount Elbrus - a snowy Russian peak which claims the lives of around 26 people a year. Faced with 100km per hour winds and minus 40 Celsius wind chill, they battled the elements to reach the top after seven days hiking on ice and snow (with two days stuck in a severe blizzard, unable to leave camp).

Luissa (left) with her climbing team.

Luissa, a British Skin Foundation Ambassador, has raised over £10,000 and counting for the British Skin Foundation’s skin disease research fund.

Luissa explained, “As a sufferer of eczema and psoriasis I wanted to take on a challenge to raise funds for research into skin conditions. Large numbers of the population are affected by skin problems which can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. The work the British Skin Foundation plays an important part in tackling skin disease.”

Upon reaching the summit, Luissa proudly donned her Miss Europe World sash and managed to smile through the tears!

The last three hours to the summit I was finding it impossible to breathe and every step left me doubled over, gasping for air due to altitude sickness. After an assessment from our guide, he felt I was fit enough to continue, so it became a mental battle to the top. Battered, bruised and broken but it was worth it for the British Skin Foundation.

Their feat was made possible by social platform Holonis, who kindly sponsored the duo in this mammoth challenge. We’re looking forward to seeing the documentary soon. 

Luissa (left) at the summit of Mount Elbrus with filmmaker Aaron Shoemaker

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By donating to skin disease research you are helping us to find treatments and cures for common conditions like eczema, acne and psoriasis through to potential killers like melanoma skin cancer. Thank you.