A different mountain to climb

When Dave Palmer set out for a weekend in the Welsh mountains, he was enjoying a lifelong passion. But what began as a light-hearted adventure sadly turned into a tragic life-altering event. 

A seasoned climber, mountaineer and active member of the Alpine Club, Dave had planned a relaxed and sociable trip with fellow climbers. It was to be a bonding weekend ahead of a larger expedition to Peru, where they aimed to summit Alpamayo - a stunning, pyramid-shaped mountain considered one of the most beautiful in the world due to its steep, symmetrical face and striking ice ridges. 

On Saturday, April 26, during a familiar scramble up the North Ridge of Tryfan, an easy route for Dave and the team, he fell approximately five metres. He was at the back of the group when he unexpectedly lost consciousness and fell backwards. The landing was brutal and a few moments later when he came to, his first words were: “I can’t feel my legs.” 

His wife, Dr Lindsay Palmer, a former GP at Lambgates Health Centre for 25 years, was climbing with him and instantly recognised the seriousness of his condition. She kept him completely still and Mountain Rescue were called immediately. Heartbreakingly, Dave just kept repeating that he couldn’t feel his legs or arms. 

Dave was airlifted from the mountain to Liverpool Hospital, where he was treated for multiple injuries, including significant cuts to his head, ear, and hip. Scans revealed he had dislocated two vertebrae in his neck – C6 and C7 – and fractured his C5. A small bleed on the brain was also discovered. 

Lindsay was assisted back down the mountain and had to make the long and difficult drive to the hospital. She had called their two daughters, Tessa and Jazz, to let them know what had happened and they immediately made the journey to Liverpool. 

After initial treatment, Dave was transferred to The Walton Centre, a specialist neurological hospital. There it was confirmed that he had a serious spinal injury. He underwent emergency surgery to stabilise his neck and prevent further damage in the early hours of Sunday morning. 

The surgery was successful, and metal fixings were placed in Dave’s neck and a halo brace fitted to keep his head and neck immobile whilst the bones heal – a process expected to take around three months. 

For the next 33 days, Dave remained in intensive care, battling to breathe independently – a basic function now compromised by the injury. It was not until day 27 that he managed to achieve a full 24 hours without breathing support. For his loving family those first weeks were agonising. 

“There was nothing we could do apart from be there for him and each other,” said Tessa. “Seeing him in the ICU, fighting to breathe, we all just felt so helpless.” 

However, the damage to Dave’s spinal cord was severe. The surgery marked the beginning of an incredibly difficult new chapter, as Dave remains paralysed from the chest down and still has no movement in his hands. 

Dave’s accident has deeply shaken his family. Tessa describes her father as an ‘adventurer at heart’, a man who embraced life with enthusiasm, thriving on challenge. Community-focused he spent time coaching the girls’ football teams at Glossop North End. 

The loss of mobility hasn’t broken Dave’s spirit, but it has completely changed his life. Now at the Princess Royal Spinal Rehabilitation Centre in Sheffield, doctors estimate that his stay will last around 12 months as he undergoes intense physiotherapy and begins adjusting to his new reality. 

Incredibly, the Palmer family have decided to channel their grief and uncertainty into action. In a show of love, solidarity and hope, they have organised an ultramarathon from Glossop to Sheffield – tracing the path between Dave’s home and the rehab centre where he is now rebuilding his life, symbolising his journey. 

On 6th September 2025, a team of friends, family and supporters will take on the physically demanding route as part of ‘Every Step for Dave’, a fundraising challenge aimed at raising £100,000 to cover costs for ongoing care, home adaptations, specialist equipment, and therapies (see box below). 

The ultramarathon represents far more than a fitness challenge. It is a symbol of endurance and connection – a tribute to a man who once climbed mountains and who now faces one of the biggest challenges of his life from a hospital bed. 

“The run is about love, resilience and giving back to the man who has given us everything” explained Tessa. “The physical, emotional, psychological and logistical challenges of Dad’s injuries are astronomical, and we know the road ahead will be long and challenging. We will do everything in our power to help him achieve the best possible recovery and continue to live life to the fullest. With support we know we can do this.” 

Dave’s zest for life and unwavering positivity have touched everyone who knows him and even from his hospital bed he remains philosophical and hopeful, telling us: “I’m happy to be alive and surrounded by such a loving family and so many good friends. I’m feeling grateful and I’m looking forward to the next chapter in this eventful life. A lesson for all: never take life for granted.” 

The mountain Dave Palmer now has to climb is like no other he has scaled before, but one thing is certain, his family are right beside him - every step of the way. 

There is a Facebook event for those wanting to learn more, search for ‘Every Step For Dave’. 

To make a donation please visit the fundraising page: https://gofund.me/844823db