Come climb with Zahnee

Zahnee climbing the stairs at home. Photo: John Borren.

'For my birthday, I'm raising money for the Mount Lions Club and you're coming with me!” says Zahnee Riley-Campbell, who plans to climb Mauao this week.

Last November at Starship Hospital, the ‘bionic teenager' had very complex surgery for spondylolisthesis.

Pain caused by the disorder had left Zahnee unable to walk properly and reliant on a wheelchair.

Recovery since surgery has been slow but successful, as Zahnee regained the ability to walk.

The climb on Sunday, November 24, will start outside the Mount Surf Club at 10am.

Tickets cost $20 and all participants will receive a t-shirt and a chance to win spot prizes. There will also be refreshments, entertainment and a sausage sizzle.

During the first decade of her life, Zahnee had to overcome serious health challenges. Over the past five years, the Mount Lions Club have been involved with supporting her to visit specialists and leading surgeons. Last year, prior to her lower spine surgery, the club organised a surprise 13th birthday to celebrate reaching the teenage year milestone.

The event included a limousine ride to the Adams High Performance Action Centre, ice creams and a party with her family and friends.

This year Zahnee is excited to be able to help give back to the club that's been helping support her.

'I'm hoping to sell 200 tickets,” says Zahnee, who has been busy organising t-shirt, flyer and ticket printing. 'Not only will I achieve my own personal goal of walking up the Mount but I will also be raising money at the same for the Mount Maunganui Lions Club.”

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