A father-of-two from Forest Gate experienced one of the most “frightening things” he has ever done in the name of charity.
Mahesh Arya was among 100 brave souls to take part in the first Westfield Stratford City Abseil Challenge to raise money for the CLIC Sargent cancer charity.
Mr Arya, 42, who has two teenage girls, decided to take part because of the impact a cancer diagnosis often has on families.
He has so far raised more than �1,000.
Mr Arya said: “I’m a parent myself and my thoughts go out to parents who have to deal with this. The nature of the disease is bad enough.”
The abseil, down the 150ft Premier Inn hotel, involved staff from around one third of the retailers at Westfield Stratford City, with some dressing up for the occasion.
The event raised more than �40,000 for CLIC Sargent. The charity provides support to families during cancer treatment, and in some cases, bereavement.
Mr Arya added: “The most frightening thing is just going over the edge. It was first time I did it and probably the last!”
To donate to Mr Arya, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/mahesharya
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