BY SACHIN KUMAR
DOHA: A Qatari group of adventurers is set to conquer Mera Peak.
At an altitude of 6,476 metres, or 21,247 feet, Mera Peak, a Himalayan summit, is known all over the world to test the physical stamina and mental strength of trekkers.
The aim of the expedition is to create awareness about mental health and change the stereotype among people about mental disorder.
The expedition is scheduled to start on August 15 and end on September 1.
The members of the group will undergo special training to make them physically and mentally fit for the 15-day adventure.
“We have been to other mountain peaks before. This expedition will take 15 days and the team will include Abdul Rahman Al Ahmadi, Ismail Al Dos and Abdul Rahman Al Allam.
“All are Qatari adventurers. The team will be given intensive training of two days on how to trek mountains and make them physically fit for the expedition,” said team leader, Faisal Al Haithami.
The team will be sharing photos of the group on social media to keep people updated on their progress.
The trip is being organised by Association of Mental Health Friends Association (AMHFA) under directives from Sheikh Thani bin Abdulla Al Thani, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AMHFA.
The announcement about the trip was made by officials of the association on Monday.
Mohamed bin Ali, Executive Director, AMHFA, announced that the initiative is first of its kind to disseminate and promote the name and goals of the association by hoisting its logo at the summit.
“The association will provide handouts and brochures to Qatari trekkers for distribution on their way to Mera Peak.
“They will also be given a flag with a logo of the association to hoist at the summit.
“The main objective of the expedition is to promote the name and aims of the association from one of the highest peaks,” he said.
“Hoisting the banners and logo will mark the beginning of other activities of the association,” said bin Ali.
Mohammed Al Zefari, Media Director, AMHFA, said such initiatives will help introduce the association to the general public and draw their attention towards mental patients.
The aim is to attract public attention to the association and its objectives because one of the goals of AMHFA is to eliminate all obstacles in dealing properly with people suffering from mental problems.
The Peninsula
