Discover how Lorraine McCall overcame adversity to conquer Scotland's hills.
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The inspiring journey of Lorraine McCall: A hillwalking pioneer
At 59 years old, Lorraine McCall has become a symbol of resilience and determination in the world of hillwalking. Her recent achievement of becoming the first woman to climb all 231 Graham hills in Scotland in a single journey is a testament to her unwavering spirit.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including three battles with cancer, Lorraine has transformed her life through her love for the outdoors.
From adversity to adventure
Lorraine’s journey into the hills began later in life. Growing up in Cumbernauld, she was not particularly outdoorsy, but a tragic event in her teenage years sparked her interest in hillwalking.
After losing her adopted parents in a car accident, Lorraine found solace in nature during a school trip to Arrochar. Although her first experience was daunting, it laid the groundwork for her future adventures.
After years of struggling with personal issues, including substance abuse, Lorraine made a life-changing decision to move away from her hometown. This fresh start allowed her to pursue a career in the hotel industry and eventually led her to university, where she discovered her passion for hillwalking. A trip to Glencoe ignited a love for the mountains that would shape her life.
Conquering the Munros and Corbetts
On her 40th birthday, Lorraine embarked on her first solo expedition, climbing all 282 Munros—Scotland’s highest mountains—over 3,000 feet. This monumental journey took 141 days and was filled with challenges, including unpredictable weather and physical exhaustion. However, it was during this time that Lorraine truly connected with nature, appreciating the beauty around her.
Her subsequent challenge involved climbing all 221 Corbetts, mountains between 2,500 and 3,000 feet, shortly after recovering from bowel cancer. This journey was unique, as Lorraine utilized a bike and even a sailing boat to reach some of the more remote peaks. Her perspective on hillwalking shifted after her cancer treatment, leading her to savor the journey rather than just focusing on reaching the summit.
A remarkable achievement with the Grahams
Last year, Lorraine set out to conquer the Grahams, hills between 2,000 and 2,500 feet. Starting on her 59th birthday, she faced tough conditions, including boggy terrain and challenging weather. Despite the physical demands, Lorraine’s determination shone through. She adapted her plans as needed, allowing her to embrace the journey fully.
“It was an amazing journey,” Lorraine reflects. “I’m very proud of myself.” Her story is not just about conquering mountains; it’s about overcoming personal battles and finding joy in the simplicity of life in the hills.
Looking ahead: New challenges and sharing her story
With her sights set on climbing the Irish hills over 3,000 feet, Lorraine continues to inspire others with her adventures. She travels across the country to share her experiences and plans to publish a book detailing her journey. Lorraine believes that having goals, no matter how big or small, is essential for personal growth.
“It’s good to have a goal to work towards,” she says, embodying the spirit of perseverance that defines her life. Lorraine McCall’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter the obstacles, the human spirit can triumph through passion and determination.
