Volunteer Ira Kalina has begun her ascent of one of Nepal’s most challenging peaks—Island Peak. As she conquers the 6,189 meters above sea level, UAnimals is launching a fundraiser to help animals suffering from the war. This is a story of a personal challenge that has become a way to loudly remind the world of those waiting to be saved.
For Ira, this is her eighth peak and a new professional level in mountaineering. Island Peak is a challenging route with steep glacial sections and thin air, where every step requires several breaths. The climb will last more than two weeks, and throughout this time, the volunteer will carry a message about those who cannot protect themselves.
Why is this climb dedicated to animals?
Ira regularly helps animals in various ways, but she understands that resources are always in short supply. That’s why she decided to combine her personal passion for the mountains with a volunteer mission. Climbing to such a height is a way to draw attention to the issue and raise money to help animals.
“For me, animals embody everything that is most beautiful in the universe. I am convinced that we, as humans, must help them as much as possible. Every time I return home and hug my cats, I realize: I want all animals to feel safe. After all, they are just as much full-fledged inhabitants of this planet as we are,“ says Ira.
The volunteer admits: news of cruelty and animal suffering often makes her lose faith in humanity. Climbing to such a height became a way for her to reach out to people with an important message:
”I know this climb will be difficult. But I believe: with every step I take upward, more people will begin to defend animals. If, over these weeks, even one person, watching my journey, helps an animal for the first time—for me, that will already be a personal record and a victory.”
You can follow Iryna’s journey on our social media.
How can you support the initiative?
While the climb is underway, we’ll be raising funds to help animals affected by the war. Today, thousands of them are left without homes or food in frontline zones. We work on this every day, and this work must not stop. Every donation you make gives us the chance to continue evacuations, medical treatment, spaying and neutering, and support for shelters.
Support Ira Kalina’s initiative and help save animals affected by the war.
Every step upward is for those waiting to be saved below.
