So I feel that I should bring people up to speed on things that have been going on in my life - especially if you are reading this blog for the first time. I've made some bad choices and have been neglectful of certain people and things in my life. That aside, I am working on making myself better and atoning for mistakes. Ok, so it was a quick update, but that about sums it up.
So, with that out of the way, I will be taking on this blog by myself for the time being and posting updates on myself and my training. You may be asking yourself, what training is he talking about? Well, I am training for a mountaineering expedition to summit Mt. Shasta which will take place in early June.
For those of you who might not have gotten the last email, here is a little more info on what I'm doingI've had friends and family in the past that have participated in all manner of fundraising events where they ran a marathon, completed a bike race, or even participated in a dancing marathon. All of their efforts helped raise money for worthy causes and charities. Now I can be counted among those that is doing something a little different to raise awareness and raise money to help a great cause. I recently signed up to participate in the 2008 Climb for Research supporting the American Liver Foundation (ALF). For those that don't know, I'm an avid hiker and when one of my hiking buddies brought this climb to my attention, I had to check it out. Upon further research I realized that the opportunity to climb with an ice axe and crampons, and support a worthy cause could not be passed up.
In addition to the "cool" factor, I do have ulterior motives. A friend of mine from college was afflicted by liver disease early in his life and had to undergo two liver transplants before he was 14 years old. If it wasn't for organizations like the ALF and the research that they support, he might not be with us today. I am climbing to support the work that the ALF does and the research that they support - here's a little more about it all.
The Climb
The Climb for Research is a pledged overnight climb event taking place at Mt. Shasta, June 7-8. Climbers raise a minimum pledges through corporate and/or vendor contacts, friends and family members for the ALF while promoting liver wellness and organ donation. Since its inception, climbers have raised $375,000 to help support the ALF.
The Mountain
Mt. Shasta is the second highest volcano in the U.S. This magnificent mountain rises 14,161 feet and at its base, is more than 17 miles in diameter. Eight massive glaciers scale the sides of this mountain. The climb will take place on the southeast side of Mt. Shasta, the traditional way favored by legendary John Muir. On the first day, the team climbs as a group to base camp for instruction in the fundamentals of safe mountain travel. On day two, an early morning start (2 AM!) is made for the summit.
Support
This is where you come in. Your financial support will not only help those with liver diseases, but will also help researchers in their search for cures to these diseases. Please feel free to share this email and information about my climb with friends and family - all support will be welcome. Donations are tax deductible and can be made through my website: www.active.com. Through several generous donations, i am currently at 15% of my fundraising goal of $2,000 - keep the money coming in!
I have already begun my training regimen to help prepare me for hiking at altitude and will hopefully be all ready to go by June. Shasta is but the first step - McKinley (at 20,320 ft.) is next year! Then, who knows? Regardless, any support is greatly appreciated.
As I do more climbing, I will be updating the blog - hopefully once a week. I will also update as the mood strikes me with anything that may be on my mind. So, check back often, you never know what you might see!
Thanks to everyone out there for all their support and well wishes.
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