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NEWS > Alumnae News > An In - Spire - ation To Us All!

An In - Spire - ation To Us All!

Stella Stephens (nee Buttress), class of 1949, was 88-years-old when she took on her Boldest Challenge Ever - abseiling down the tower of St Mary's in Walton-on-Thames to raise funds for the church.

She was inspired to share her Boldest story after reading about our fearless alumnae who will be rowing across the Atlantic in December as they take part in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge in a bid to raise £100,000 for three cancer charities.

Stella recalls the event two years ago: “It was an amazing experience and on a fine day in September, but nothing like the dangers that Abby, Charlotte and Kat will experience, bless them. What lovely girls they must all be, I shall certainly be rooting for them all the way.”

Stella says the worst part of her challenge was climbing the claustrophobic spiral staircase to the roof.  She explains: “I have no fear of heights since learning to climb mountains in the 1970’s. My husband was not a happy bunny about me taking part, but with eight grandchildren and also a number of greats urging me, I gained his blessing. The best bit was the thrill of all the family and friends below, cheering me on. ‘You can do it Grandma’ still rings in my ears!”

In fact Stella was joined on the abseil by Charles, her grandson, who was 30 that day, and Debbie, her stepdaughter. Between them they raised several hundred pounds for the church.

We hope you will feel just as inspired by Stella’s story as we do.  What’s the boldest thing you’ve ever done? Please send us a photo of your achievement or a video of you telling the tale to alumnae@lehs.org.uk.  And always remember - Hope Favours the Bold.

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Lady Eleanor Holles School
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