Peaks for PKD is back, and this year it’s focused on one powerful goal - supporting PKD research and patient supports through Eric Hampel’s 2026 climbing challenge.
Eric is a PKD patient who climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in 2024 to raise awareness and funds for people affected by polycystic kidney disease (PKD). In June 2026, he’s taking on a new endurance challenge in the U.K. - the National Three Peaks Challenge.
Donate to PKD Research & Patient Supports
Peaks for PKD was inspired by PKD patient Eric Hampel and his commitment to taking on big climbs for a cause. This year, we’re cheering him on as he prepares for the National Three Peaks Challenge - climbing the highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales within 24 hours.
It’s a different kind of challenge than Kilimanjaro. There’s less time to recover, more repeated climbing, and an intense pace that demands stamina, strategy, and grit. Eric is training throughout the year with hikes, gym sessions, running, and stair work, building strength for what will be one of his toughest tests yet.
About Eric’s 2026 challenge
The National Three Peaks Challenge involves climbing:
- Ben Nevis (Scotland)
- Scafell Pike (England)
- Snowdon (Wales)
Eric is taking on this challenge to help fund the work that matters most to PKD families - research toward better treatments and a cure, and supports that help people live better with PKD.
Follow Eric’s training updates
We’ll be sharing Eric’s progress, photos, and reflections as he trains, including the realities of preparing for an endurance challenge while living with PKD.
Every donation helps push PKD research forward and strengthen supports for patients and families across Canada. Thank you for being part of Eric’s journey, and for helping bring us closer to a future without PKD.