The 14,410' Climb

"Only on top can you see the whole view - can you see what you've done and what you can do - press on follow your dream."

2010-07-21T11:16:00.001-07:00

At 6:39am Saturday morning 12 of 18 CFCA team members made it to the summit of Mt. Rainier... Mandy and I were two of them! Let me rewind here and begin the story with our first two days in Ashford:

Wednesday July 14h we packed up the car with all of our gear and headed out for Ashford, WA where we would be staying for the next two days in preparation for our climb. We arrived at Jasmers, which is run by my Uncle John and Aunt Tana. My Aunt and Uncle generously donated one of their vacation rentals to us to stay in while we were prepping for the climb. I cannot tell you what a blessing that was! The East Echo Chalet was not only less than one mile away from the RMI basecamp but had a full kitchen and a hot tub where we were able to rest our bodies in before our climb. I think all climbers need to seriously consider staying in one of these cabins. It truly was the PREFECT space to simultaneously rest and prep for a summit attempt.

After settling in, we went over to RMI for orientation. Here we met our guides Win Wittaker and Mike Haugen. Win has summited Rainier 144 times on various routes in addition to leading trips to Mt. McKinley (20,320') and Aconcagaua (22,841') Mike has an Everest summit under his belt and also has led trips to McKinley and Mt. Vinson in Antarctica. We were going to be in good hands.

Thursday July 15th- the group met at RMI headquarters at 8:15am. From here, we boarded the shuttle and went up to Paradise for a day of 'snow school'. Mike and Win guided the team roughly an hour up the mountain where we spent the next few hours practicing mountain safety and climbing techniques. Here the guides make sure the climbers are aware of RMI expectations to traverse the glaciers and to make the summit. It's also a time where the guides evaluate each climber's ability, physical strength, and confidence. My favorite part of the day was practicing 'self-arrests'. If I, or someone else on my rope team was to fall, the goal is to yell 'falling!' and then have everyone one else on the rope team drop to a knee and dig their ice axe into the snow as fast and as hard as possible so to hopefully stop the fall. It gets you into a position where you and the rest of the team could save one another. After practicing these and other techniques we hiked back to Paradise where we boarded the bus at 3pm.

After school, Mandy and I went back to the cabin and began to pack our food for the next two days on the mountain. For our summit attempt we essentially will be hiking for 15+ hours. At orientation we were told that we'd be given a break about every hour- where it was our responsibility to drink a half litter of water and consume between 200-500 calories each time. Basically we were told to plan for 12 breaks and two main meals equalling well over 5,000 calories. Here is our menu that we wrote out to make sure we were packing enough:

After we got our meals together it was back to RMI. It was a gorgeous night as the CFCA team gathered around the grassy picnic area at Whittaker's Bunkhouse to listen to Lou Whittaker (Lou, a legend on Mount Rainier, has over 250 summits while leading thousands of novice and experienced climbers to the 14,410' summit of Mount Rainier. He has also climbed in Alaska, the Himalaya, and the Karakoram. In 1984, he led the first successful American summit of the North Col of Mount Everest.) This is a special evening, being that Lou only ever does this for the CFCA climbers, before their summit attempt. Lou had us introduce ourselves and afterwards began telling us a little about his background and his love for the mountains... most specifically Mt. Rainier. It was a casual but an organically genuine time with a mountain legend. We spent most of the evening in awe of the stories he told and laughing, really laughing. Lou is full of personality and pretty much one of the coolest 83 year olds that I know.

After our conversations with Lou we were able to take a couple of photos with the group documenting our success in raising $200,00 for the ALA!

Friday July 16th we woke up at 6:30am. It was hard to sleep that night knowing that everything we had worked for, fundraising and training alike, was all because of this day. We had to bring so much gear, so we spent most of the early morning packing and checking off the long list of needed items.

We arrived at basecamp by 8am full of nerves and excitement. Mandy ran into Ed Viestures which was a very cool way to start the day. Ed is pretty much a big deal:

Ed has repeatedly proven himself as America's leading high-altitude mountaineer, having ascended many of the world's most challenging peaks, many of those without the aid of supplemental oxygen. He has made the summit of Mt. Everest seven times, most recently on May 19, 2009, with the RMI/First Ascent Team. Ed also became the first American and one of only five people to climb the highest peaks on all six continents, yet again without supplemental oxygen.

His latest quest is to climb all fourteen of the world's highest mountains with elevations over 8,000 meters without the use of supplemental oxygen. On May 12, 2005, he successfully completed his quest when he stood on the top of Annapurna. Only nine others have done so, seven of them forgoing oxygen. Ed is the first American to top all fourteen.

Before we departed basecamp, I ran over to my aunt and uncles to drop off our cabin keys. My Aunt Tana said a brief prayer for me and as I left reminded me of this quote,

"Only on top can you see the whole view -

can you see what you've done and what you can do -

press on follow your dream."

It was the perfect send off. Before we knew it we were at Paradise getting ready to embark on an amazing adventure.

With packs on, and our guides leading the way we began our accent to Camp Muir.

The weather was perfect during our climb of nearly 5 hours. We climbed slow and steady as to conserve as much energy for the summit attempt. Arriving at 3pm, we got to the bunk house and prepared for the evening's rest. Mandy and myself were two of only four girls in the bunk house. The rest of the climbers were comprised of 14 men. Compared to the windy 4th we spent at Muir, the weather was warm and calm as we rested before dinner and pre-summit talk from our guides.

At 6pm, our guides gave us our pre-summit talk.

Announcing our rope teams at this time, Mandy and I were happy to hear to that we'd be on the same rope alongside my friend from college, Brett Martin. We were told that they'd be checking the weather conditions round 11pm and depending on that would be waking us up somewhere between 11:30pm and 1am for the summit attempt. They said to make sure and get a good meal in before bed and that everyone needed to be 'horizontal' by 6:30pm. They explained while that it may be impossible to get a full night's sleep or even sleep at all, it was necessary for us to lay down and rest our bodies and by simply doing that for a couple of hours we would be rested enough. Mandy was able to sleep some, but do to all of the snoring, I wasn't able to catch any shut eye. At 11:30pm, the guides came in and woke everyone up and announced that weather conditions were perfect. We had one hour to get ready. By 1am we were fed, and with crampons, headlamp, helmet and pack on, the guides roped our teams together.

The stars were AMAZING! We began climbing in the dark with nothing but our headlamps guiding our feet along the glacier. An hour into the climb we had our first break at Ingram flats. I certainly felt the altitude- feeling nausea and not wanting to eat. Nevertheless, after getting my parka on, I did my best to consume the needed calories and water. The guides came over to each one of us looking us directly in the eye and asking how we were feeling. Mandy and I got the thumbs up to continue on but Brett told the guide that this would be his personal summit. An old injury was acting up, and he knew that there would be no way he continue on. I felt awful for him, but as the same time very proud of him for knowing his limit. Brett and three others went back to Muir with one of the guides. Meanwhile, we packed our bags back up and continued on.

The next section was Disappointment Cleaver, one of, if not the hardest stretches of the climb. The exposed rock made climbing with crampons extremely difficult. It seemed impossible to climb without the use of pressure breathing and rest steps. Occasionally, I'd look down and realize the depth of the crevasses we were crossing and the steepness of the cliffs. My heart would began to speed up in fear, but I tried my best to counter-balance it withpressure breaths. After another hour and half of fear, exhaustion, and extreme effort- we made it to the next break. "Ok, guys... we're at the top of Disappointment Cleaver," Win announced. Mandy and I looked at each other, our eyes got big as did our smiles. "90%!" we shouted. A few days before we left for the climb, one of our training guides emailed us some tips and number eleven on the list said this,

"REMEMBER that when you get to DISSAPOINTMENT CLEAVER 90 % of the people who get to that altitude (12,300) make it to the summit. At the CLEAVER is where your brain will try to tell you to stop......keep going ...you're almost there !!"

Three more climbers decided that this was their personal best and turned back for Muir. Twelve of us remained. Another hour of climbing the glacier had us arriving at High Break, 13,000'. Sitting on our packs, eating and drinking, the sun began to rise.

We had one last leg of our accent. The altitude was taking our breathe, our appetite. Even with our parkas on we felt cold and exposed. As the sky grew lighter we could see where we stood like specks on this giant mountain. I felt small but big all at the same time. Our breaks never lasted for more than 15 minutes and with 4 hours into the climb we continued on.

With one last push we made it into the crater. At 6:39am we summited Mt. Rainier! Hugs were shared between the team and the guides. High fives and gasping breathes were the only sounds that echoed between the crater walls.

According to our guides, the summit constitutes as anywhere in the crater however... Columbia Crest is the highest point on the mountain. We were given the choice based on both our need for rest and our desire to continue on whether or not we wanted to take a 45 minute break or go up to Columbia Crest. The team decided that rest was needed, but I had an itch to continue. So guide Zeb, and I began the 30 minute trek to Columbia Crest. Here you can see the team resting inside the crater from CC.

I wrote my name in the registry here, "Katie Osterhaus CFCA 7.17.10 tacoma, WA"

Once back to the team, we got our gear together and headed back down the mountain. I fully expected the descent to be the hardest part- it certainly was. As the sun continued to rise we could really feel the heat radiating off of the glacier. The footing between with rock, glacier, ice and snow was less than inviting. At the first break down the mountain, Win reminded us that as the day warmed we had to increase our pace to get over opening crevasses and bypass rock and ice fall.

Three hours into our descent we braked for the last time. Win took a moment to talk to the group. He reminded us that while we had all made the summit- not everyone back at the camp had. We had to remember that those who had not made it- had instead made their personal summit and that in itself is a huge accomplishment. We needed to be prepared for their reactions to their disappointment and our excitement and pride. It was a good reality check remembering that not everyone was able to see and do what we had done that day. As we made it back into Camp Muir- exhausted, excited, humbled, and happy we were met by the other member of the team. They graciously welcomed us back full of congratulations. We spent the next hour packing up Camp Muir and getting adequate food and water into our bodies. From there we made our way back to Paradise. At pebble creek we were surprised to have welcoming committee headed by none other than Bronka and other members of the CFCA. Brokna had Rainier beers cooling in the creek, Oreo cookies, and watermelon. I don't think beer and Oreos have ever tasted so good:) It was awesome to have such a welcome!

Back at the base of Paradise, our adventure had finally come to an end. We had done it. Raised nearly $9,000 for the ALA and reached the summit of Mt. Rainier. What an awesome adventure it was.

k&m

Track our climb!

2010-07-13T01:33:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we leave for our four day mountain summit attempt. Our schedule will be as follows:

Day One: 3pm meet at RMI basecamp. Guides will go through our gear making sure we have everything we need. Basic climb orientation and climb overview.

Day Two: 8:15 am mountaineering school until 5pm. We will learn RMI safety protocol, hike up about two hours and practice self-arrests and other mountaineering basics. 7pm we have a fireside chat with Lou Whittaker.

Day Three: Leave Ashford at 8:15am for our accent. We will climb 4-6 hours to Camp Muir. We will make dinner here and rest here until we begin getting ready for the summit attempt around 1am.

Day Four: We will make our way from Camp Muir to the summit. After summitting, we will begin our 9,000'+ descent back to Paradise. The night we will enjoy a dinner at Paradise Lodge with family and friends.

One of our fellow teammates, Kevin, will be climbing with a GPS tracker. This means you can track our climb via him, as he will climbing within close proximity to us! Click here to watch us climb!

The begining of the end...

2010-07-13T01:02:00.000-07:00

My dad recently wrote to me about my climb and quoted an author by the name of Harlen Coben who suggests the importance of living the great cliches: "Live like it is your last day", "Pain is temporary, quitting is forever," and "Live in the moment." While training for this climb, We've heard many of these and simultaneously spoken them. My dad said that Coben pointed out that, "Unfortunately the great cliches are often the great insights." I agree with this sentiment as we, over the next five days will continually feed off of every heartfelt and encouraging insight that's been given over these last five months of training. Pushing us will be every "go for it" and "reach for the summit." Finally, as my friend Stacia said to us, "to every woman who though she couldn't..." here we go ;)
k

4th of July

2010-07-13T00:14:00.000-07:00

After five months of training hikes, July 4th we embarked on our last one. We had plans to leave for Paradise by 9am however due to an unfortunate accident we weren't able to leave until nearly 10:30am. What was this accident you ask? Well, the rental shop gave me two differnt size boots both 'leftys' as well. That wasn't going to fly for a trip to camp Muir. Mandy and I had to return to Ashford 45 minuites away, switch the boots and speed back up to Paradise.

The team: Russ, Ron, Kevin and Andrew, waited patiently for us, which we were so grateful for, and into the foggy air we went. The day provided a myriad of of weather systems. We began with barely any visibility and then continued on into freezing rain. Above the clouds we were met with clear blue skies and intense heat. Once at Camp Muir the wind crept up and before we knew it were trying to withstand 45mph gusts. As one climber put it, "I really am eating a 'sand'which today" as he put down his dirt covered lunch. We tried our best to shield our food and eyes, but the wind put up quite a fight. Following the American flag-draped pack that Kevin carried, we cut our lunch break short and made our descent faster than normal. Dipping below 7,500' the wind lessened, but then so did the visibility. This trip was considerably longer than our last two, alomst 9 hours we spent climbing. By the time we made it back to our car we were cold, wet, sun-burned, and exhausted. Mandy had made it down the last 2,000 feet practically blind after having gotten dirt in her contacts. We were tired, but accomplished. On our drive home, fireworks filled the air, this was the end of our training. Now all that was left was the summit attempt.

k&m

Muir round 2

2010-07-12T23:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday night we met the CFCA group around 7pm at the Paradise Lodge. We were going to be learning more about working within a rope team and also doing so in the dark. With our headlamps, harnesses, and ice axes in hand we worked our way up and down the steep inclines of Paradise. Finishing up around 10pm, we parted ways with the group and back to Ashford we went. My Aunt Tana graciously welcomed us to stay at Jasmers with her that night. It was such a blessing to be able to wake up at 7am and walk next door to Whittakers to get our gear- opposed to the 4:30am wake-up calls we had been doing. Thanks Aunt Tana!

The next day, we woke up fresh and ready to take on Muir again. We have been so lucky with the weather! Another climb to Camp Muir came complete with warm sun and blue sky. Bronka, the oldest woman to have climbed Rainier at the age of 83, came along with us again. It had been just two weeks since she had spread her late husband's ashes on the mountain. I got the chance to speak more with Bronka this climb.

We told her how much of an inspiration she was to us and that we looked to her when we felt fatigued or frustrated and knew that if Bronka could do it- we could do it. I asked Bronka how she had been doing... she sighed and said,"It is my first time climbing since I lost my husband. Yesterday I was here at Paradise to have lunch with my husband- but today I am ready to climb." She is pretty incredible. We made great time and felt great while doing it. Less than a month away!

k&m

Camp Muir

2010-06-16T13:09:00.000-07:00

Another 5 am trip to the mountain took place this past weekend. We met the CFCA team at Paradise Sunday morning and began the day with a quick team meeting specifically discussing avalanche danger due to the death of a climber the previous weekend and the extreme warnings the ranger station had been broadcasting. We were also introduced to Bronka Sandstrom, the oldest women

to have ever climbed Mt. Rainier. This woman summitted in one day... 19 hours of climbing. What an inspiration! She hiked with the CFCA group for roughly the first 1,000'- an absolute honor to have her in our presence. By 9am we set off onto the sun soaked snow field with 35lbs of gear on our backs. Camp Muir, 4.5 miles and 4,600' from Paradise was our goal.

As we learn more about this mountain climbing thing, we learn the little things can be most important. For instance, putting on sunblock includes putting it inside your mouth, in your ears, and up your nose. The sun will reflect off of the snow and as I witnessed last week on a couple of fellow climbers (who suffered 2nd degree burns), the sun on the mountain can severely severely sunburn you to the point of hospitalization. Resting is another 'simple' component often overlooked while climbing. Using the 'rest step' and getting off of our legs while breaking have proven to be critical in saving enough energy and strength to make the summit.

What an amazing day, the visibility was crystal clear, the sky open and blue and the mountain commanding our every attention. The "Muir Freeway" was bustling and full of energy. Hiking up we could look back on the trail confettied with other climbers.

By mid-way, the group had spilt into two groups due to varying speeds. Mandy and I continued in the first group though feeling our legs burn and hearts race as the mountain never wavered in its lack of grace. At times we'd hear thunder, see smoke and all pause in wonder as an avalanche would make its way down a face of Rainier. The beauty of where we were was constantly in competition with the reality of its power.

3.5 hours into the trek, Muir was in sight. Our guide, Mike, stopped the group and wanted to remind us that the mountain can truly psych you out. He said, while Muir looked 'right up the hill' it was still an hour out and to try and focus on smaller distance goals other than camp, like the flags marking the path or even as one climber called out, "I'm just trying to make it to the footsteps in front of me." The reminder was noted and grateful we were for it, as the distance to Muir truly messed with our minds. I swore I could reach out and touch it, but every fifteen minutes, it's proximity to us never lessened.

After another 20 minutes of exhaustion, we had to just keep our heads down and just get there... 4.5 hours after we set out, get there we did. Setting foot at camp, the team celebrated with cheers and high fives. We stopped for lunch in the clouds and got to evaluate where were at physically and mentally as we had just made it to our soon to be summit's half-way mark.

After lunch had been had, the group began the decent. As we left Muir and looked up at the mountain we could see about fifteen dark spots speckling the glacier... another team making their way from the summit. In 28 days, this was going to be us.

k&m

'Jack's' Letter

2010-06-16T00:51:00.000-07:00

30 days... we have just 30 days left. It seems like we've been training forever yet at the same time, we wonder if we need more time to prepare. Regardless of what we think though, come July 16th, we will be on that mountain and climbing toward the top.

Throughout this great adventure, we have been so blessed to have our friends and family support us in every way. In addition, there is a specific individual that choose to support us that I'd like to tell you about. Please note, this was a personal letter to myself and Mandy and our wish in sharing it with all of you is that you find yourself as inspired as we were.

We have never met him, we have never spoken to him and yet, when he heard our story chose to believe in us. Remember back to when our climb was featured on the Ron and Don Show? We received two donations from a listener named 'Jack'... one in each of our names. We knew nothing more about this man or why he chose to donate to our team and this cause. We wanted badly to say thank you but there was nothing more than a name noted on the donation. A couple months went by before I found out that we actually had access to all of our online donor's email addresses. Immediately we wrote to 'Jack' simply wanting to say thank you. That very day we received an email back. I want to share this email with all of you:

Katie/Mandi-

Thank you so much for your kind words. I'm glad I could do something to help and I only which I could do more. I was very touched when you and Mandi shared your story on the radio. I lost my brother 'Brad' in 2005 to lung cancer, he was only 43 years old. I think about him ever day, especially now that I'm the same age as he was when he passed away. My brother was amazing, he never once said why me, he just focused on loving the people in his life to the fullest with the short time we had left. My brother would love what you are doing, he loved the outdoors and was always out hiking or fishing and just enjoying the great Northwest. I want you two to know that I find you both inspiring and I know that this journey you are on will forever change your lives. Sometimes we need to tackle what we think is impossible to really know that we are living. Please know that I will be thinking of you both in July and my brother and I will be rooting you both on. I really think this will transform how you approach the rest of your lives and I think you are both amazing and strong young women. Please keep me updated along the way and know every step you take is a step forward for all of us that care. As Don would say, keep your head up, your shoulders back and kick some ass!!! Go for it!!! -'Jack'

As we move into our final days of training, its too often that we complain about the long gym workouts, the sore muscles, the lack of time on the weekends, and the pure exhaustion of it all... We are on this amazing adventure and 'Jack's' words reminded us that long gym workouts are time given to prepare, the sore muscles are evidence of our growing strength, lack of time and exhaustion proof that we are getting this chance to live- really live- this gift of life.

k&m

Back to Pebble Creek

2010-05-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

Sunday was our last mini-mountain climb before three Muir climbs and then our summit attempt. Mandy went solo, as our friend Brett was climbing Hood and I am nursing a hamstring injury. I believe I strained my muscle a couple of months ago and unfortunately it has gotten increasingly more painful as I continued to train. I am now under the care of wonderful doctor who is helping me with physical and cold laser therapy. I have taken the last 5 days off from all training and exercise which is driving me mad, but I am beginning to feel the benefits to the rest and treatments. I plan to resume training this week and hopefully be fully healed in the next two weeks.

Mandy headed out by 5am to first pick up a few rentals at Whittakers in Ashford and then onward up to Paradise. It was freezing at 3,000 feet and the snow was falling hard as Ashford neared. She followed fellow climber Ron and told him that if she flashed her lights, she'd need him to pull over so she could ditch her car and ride in a more snow-suitable vehicle. A few slips and slides but she made it safely and departed with the group by 9am. Compared to just a few weeks ago, the weather had completely done a 180. CFCA team member Kevin posted the following before and after photo showing the drastic difference between last Pebble Creek climb and this Sunday's.

Mandy said she couldn't see more than five feet in front of her, let alone the mountain's peek.

Because of the temperature difference and heavy snowfall, the climbers got to train for the first time with warmer gear, more layers and considerably less visibility. As far as July's concerned, we really could experience both types of conditions (snow or sun) Ultimately it was a good thing for everyone to train conversely to our last climb- adding to our comfort and education as novice climbers.

We have hit almost $7,600! It is a really exciting time for us as we have have 51 days until our summit attempt and get even closer to reaching our goal of $10,000 for the ALA.

Don't forget:

*Every donation through June 10th will be entered to win 2 tickets to the Mariner's June 21st.

*The largest donation will win a wine-paired dinner for two to the Bellevue Purple Cafe.

Special thanks to my Aunt Barbara, Kay Spikes, Jill Thompson, and Aaron DeFeyter who supported us this past month!

k&m

1st training on Rainier

2010-05-10T15:49:00.000-07:00

Getting up at 4am was certainly not easy, but the excitement behind Sunday's conditioning climb on Rainier made it easier. We got our packs packed, gear together, lunch packed, and were ready to go by the time Brett picked us up at 5 that morning. The roads were almost vacant making the drive fast and care-free- the gorgeous sunrise didn't hurt either.
By 7am we were in Ashford. Along with about 10 others from our team, we gathered at Whittaker's mountaineering rentals. We got our plastic boots, gaiters, glacier glasses and then walked next door to my aunt and uncle's, Jasmers, to borrow two pairs of snowshoes. It took us another 45 minutes but before we knew it we were at Paradise and at the foot of this amazing mountain. It felt like my first day of school with a mix of anxiety and excitement pumping through my veins.

We couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. The sun was bright and Rainier seemed to glow in the turquoise sky. While we geared up more of our team arrived and by 9 am we stood with the entire group talking the day's schedule and strategy. It was many of the team's first time wearing the plastic mountaineering boots and climbing in the snow with 30lbs on our backs.
Our first stop on the climb was right before the avalanche shoot where our guides taught us about pressure breathing and the rest stop step, both mountaineering techniques that help regulate breathing at altitude and enable your muscles to climb for both endurance and grade. By the time we reached our summit for the day, many of us climbers were surprised with the ease of that day's hike.

As we sat on the backs of our packs, ate our lunch and adjusted our boots, our guide announced that our team was looking in great shape. He explained to us that collectively, our team, was one of the stronger teams he had guided before and that while we should not get cocky we should be seriously proud of the training we have put in thus far as it clearly indicated to him that this was a team to be reckoned with. The day was simply amazing and it is clear that I am falling madly in love with this mountain :)

Thanks to a generous donation by Mr. and Mrs. Mattson, we have raised the minimum needed to secure our summit date. July 16th it is. It was such exciting news to hear that we have reached $7,000 in donations. How cool is that?! While we are pumped to have met the minimum, we still have every intention of getting to the goal we set for our team at the beginning of all of this... $10,000.

Every donation through June 10th, will be entered into a raffle to win to Mariner's tickets for the June 20th game at Safeco Field. Win those tickets!

k&m

All Star Suite

2010-05-10T15:24:00.000-07:00

Monday morning, Mandy received a call from Carna our event coordinator, "Congratulations, you won this month's incentive from the ALA..." Because our team raised the most throughout the month of April we a were awarded four tickets to the All Star Suite at the Mariner's game. Mandy, myself, my brother Dustin, and his wife Bekah met downtown Wednesday evening and made our way the ramp to the suite level of the stadium. We were met by the suite host we guided us down the hallway to our room. There we were haded off to Linda, who welcomed us to the game and began her tutorial on what our suite offered. It went a little like this, "The refrigerators are stocked and everything in there is your to take... the buffet on the left has a fantastic blacken cod special this evening... the dessert bar on the right has cheesecake, cookies, ice cream, ever topping you could ever want... in the middle there is some of the ballpark favorites: hot dogs (with every garnish imaginable), popcorn, peanuts... we are here for you... what can I start for you?" We were well taken care of and enjoyed watching the game in that capacity. It truly was a wonderful prize!

Tiger Traverse

2010-05-10T15:02:00.001-07:00

Two Sunday's ago, while I was running in Spokane's annual Bloomsday Race, Mandy joined the CFCA group for a endurance conditioning hike. The Tiger Traverse off of I-90, is a 16 mile trek similar to the Rattlesnake Traverse that we did half of a couple of weeks ago. About 30 poeple came out to enjoy the rainy Northwest weather... oh and the trail too. Mid-way through the hike, the group stopped for a picnic. Actually, it was more even some wine! The tree cover was ample enough to sheild the group from most of the rain and the high spirits endured all 16 miles. It was a great hike.

April Update & Mariner's Tickets!

2010-04-26T19:13:00.000-07:00

As May approaches, we find ourselves less than three months away from our summit attempt. While exhaustion and anxiety are byproducts of our training and anticipation, we realize now more than ever that all the hard work is paying off.

McClellen Butte, Mailbox Peak, Mt. Pilchuck… there are so many fantastic trails here in the Northwest, but due to avalanche danger, snow drifts, and poor trail conditions we have been unable to climb them. Warmer weather conditions can’t come soon enough- so until then, we hike Si...

Two weeks ago, we went to Mt. Si without any goals other than to summit. As we climbed we realized that we were keeping a record pace. So…we climber faster, we climbed with more direction, we climbed with focus. Another couple in front of kept this ideal speed until mile 2.5 when they ask us to pass them. I mentioned to them that they had kept a perfect pace for us. With sweat dripping down their brow they said they’d love for us to now pace them. We took the challenge and by mile three our legs were burning, heart racing, and determination pressing ever more. At the summit we looked at the clock… 1:55. We made it in less than two hours with 20+ lbs on our backs. A goal we have had set for ourselves since February. We did it!

The couple behind us ascended shortly after. They thanked us for pacing them and we responded with a like sentiment. It turns out that they too are training for Rainier. After a quick snack, we made our way back down and left the mountain proud and accomplished.

This past weekend, we met with the CFCA team to hike *surprise* Mt. Si. (I cannot wait to cease training on this mountain!) The weather was far from ideal, but the rain couldn't dampen our spirits. Around mile 3 the rain turned to snow and before we knew it was passed into a winter wonderland. It really was quite magical. The summit was much colder than it had been the week prior and we had to make sure to put on some warmer layers and break for a shorter period of

time. My friend Brett was nice enough to lend me his outer shell as my fleece wasn’t keeping me warm enough. I did look like a big blue snow monster, but at least I was a warm one.

It was the last hike before we start training on the real mountain… Rainier. Starting in two weeks, we begin our training at Pebble Creek and Muir. We are feeling stronger and much more physically ready to attempt this climb in July. Aside from the physical preparedness, we are also making progress in the other aspects of preparations for this climb. Our gear list is over ten pages… baselayers, soft shells, outer shells, light gloves, medium gloves, heavy weight gloves, sun protections, wind protections, food, etc… but we are slowly whittling it down and getting ready to train and summit with this gear.

We have now raised $5,522.00! We are only $1,478 away from our financial minimum set by the ALA to do this climb. We are so close!

My brother, Dustin and his wife Bekah, have graciously donated two tickets to the Mariners! The game is Sunday June 20th at 1:10pm. The seats are right behind Ichiro and can be yours! EVERY donation through May 30th will be entered to win these tickets. Thank you Dustin and Bekah!

Thank you to everyone for your continual support. There’s just no way we could do it without you.

♥k&m

91 Days!

2010-04-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

Mandy and I met with the CFCA team 8:45am this past Saturday for the Tiger 3 trail. The trail is approximately 5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 2100 feet. Although working until nearly midnight most Friday nights limits my enthusiasm Saturday mornings, I've found that being so warmly welcomed by the other climbers in the CFCA group changes my attitude quickly. It has been a wonderful way to train, seeing my team members and catching up at these hikes every other week. The solidarity and cohesive nature of our cause has created some unlikely but unique friendships.

As we ascended the trail, we were passed by

many other hikers forewarning us of the

precarious trail conditions ahead. The last mile was supposedly extremely icy. As we approached the snow line, our team stopped to chain-up. Yak Traks... one of the most ingenious ideas, are basically chains bound by an elastic barrier that cling to the bottom of our shoes. They are super easy to slip on and off and something I even used to walk around my iced-over parking lot two winters ago. While getting up a slippery slope can be done, Yak Traks make the almost impossible decent doable. Most of the team members had them, and the ones that didn't certainly looked on with envy as their feet skated on the ice.

The summit was lovely- we had sun, blue sky, and great snacks! Mandy and I have found complete joy in cheese, crackers, and apples at the summit:)

The Thursday before the hike was our monthly CFCA meeting. I wasn't able to go so Mandy represented our team and even got to speak that night about her grandfather's battle with emphysema and why it was so important to her to climb in his behalf.

As we continue on with our training and fundraising, I continually find myself in awe of the faith people have had in our team and this cause. Our family, our friends, and even completely strangers have supported us to an extent that leaves me without words at times. We are so blessed.

I want to thank the following people for making our financial goal closer this past week:

Grandma Flo, our highest donor yet! But more importantly, an amazing lady in my life.
Aunty R., one of the coolest women I've ever known ;)
Grandpa Don, one of my biggest cheerleaders in life! Thank you for supporting me in yet another adventure:)
Matterhorn Man... yeah, I figured out who you are! My amazing brother Travis.
Margaret Petrich, a wonderful friend who has always been there for me.
Marc DuCharm, for being so gracious! He sent out a letter to his interior design clients asking for item donations to my upcoming garage sale. He has continually supported me throughout this. Marc, you are simply fantastic!
Sarah Kanter
John Capone
David Butler

k&m

Half way there!

2010-04-06T00:21:00.001-07:00

We are almost at the $5,000 mark, nearly half-way to our goal of raising $10,000 for the American Lung Association. So, while you are working hard to help us meet this amazing goal- we are working hard to get ready to climb. To train, we are spending time at the gym, taking weightlifting classes, running, sprints up hill, and hiking every weekend.

Last weekend we had our sights set on McClellen Butte, a 5162' peak off I-90's exit 42. As we were literally getting our gear in the car, the radio caught our attention with, "The Cascades expect at least 2 feet of new snow starting early this evening..." I gave Mandy the look: lip down, forehead wrinkled, and eyes full of question, "Do we do it?" I asked. It was only 8am and had projected a round trip time of approximately 4 hours- well before the snow we to begin falling.

Following the old muddy logging road, my car dipped and jolted by the unrelenting pot-holes. We reached our destination and an intelligent decision to turn around, as the McClellen parking lot was completely vacant... we needn't be those hikers we often hear about on our early Monday morning commutes, "two hikers have failed to return from what was a weekend hike in the Eastern Cascades. Searches have been delayed due to snow..." We told the horn-shaped summit we'd be back in the near future and back west we went. Driving away from snow-capped mountains, Snoqualmie Point at the Rattlesnake Mountain Trail beckoned us. This trail begins on the Eastern side of Rattlesnake Ledge, where we hiked with the CFCA team last month, and connects to Rattlesnake Lake via an 11 mile route. There are two vantage points, Stan's Overlook (2.5 miles) and Grand Prospect (4.9 miles) on the way to Rattlesnake Lake.

We made it about a mile past Grand Prospect, then turned around. The weather held out for us the entire 12 mile trip and only started raining as we descended into the parking lot. The trail, well maintained, had very few other hikers and a lovely mix of views, terrain, grade, and forest. After our eye-opening pace that our guide held at the Little Si training hike, we kept focus on our speed. In the coming weeks, we aim to hike the entire traverse, parking one car at the east end for drop off and the other at the west end for pick up.

This coming weekend we have custody of Big Si and Tiger Mountain. Saturday we’ll be joining our fellow team members as we train on Tiger and Sunday, we plan to quicken our pace up Si. Our intensity increases as we count down to our July summit. 100 days.

The weekends of never-ending hiking have been exhausting but as we drive away from our trails and back to our homes, we see Rainier watching over us from the distance and whispering… “my turn’s next.” There’s no stopping now.

k&m

and the winner is...

2010-04-05T21:07:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Bekah Osterhaus! For her generous donation, she was entered into this month's raffle, and is now the winner of a $100 gift certificate to the fabulous Purple Cafe and Wine Bar.

Thank you Purple Cafe for providing this awesome prize!

This month we have been given 2 tickets to the Seattle Repertory Theater's An Iliad. Every $20 donation will enter you into a raffle to win these tickets to see An Iliad. You pick the date, playing through May 16th. Drawing to be held April 19th.

We have been so blessed the past two weeks with so many donations and want to take a moment to thank the following people:

Evan Boulanger
Stacia Davis
Stephanie Kramer
Patrica Robert
Laura Robert
Pricsilla Grochowski
Linda Tran
David Butler
Nick Nageli
Diana Slater
Lindsay Leisner
Alison Wright

A couple of people who have gone above and beyond...

Dave and Teresa Osterhaus, who have offered to hold a benefit garage sale on behalf of our team and graciously offered to match whatever is made at the sale!

Paul Whiteside, a KIRO listener, who heard our story on The Ron and Don Show and donated $200 without even knowing us! What an amazing statement of faith in our climb and an example of how a complete stranger can make a difference in someone's life.

Jessica Gottsman, the KIRO news reporter who met us in studio. She had never met us before and more than likely will never see us again, but heard our story, told us that she believed in us and donated.

Michelle Bagley, she offered this month's incentive (see above), 2 tickets to the Seattle Rep. Theatre. What an amazing gift!

Don't forget, the highest donor will receive a wine-paired dinner for two to the Bellevue Purple cafe and Wine Bar!

We keep saying this, but it's so true... WE COULDN'T DO THIS WITHOUT YOU!

Thank you to everyone who continues to inspire, motivate, challenge, amaze, support, and encourage us.

k&m

Powered by Purple!

2010-03-28T01:31:00.000-07:00

The Purple Cafe and Wine Bar continues in its support of Team Matterhaus! This just in...

Whomever donates the largest donation to our team in this cause, will receive a wine-paired dinner for two, to the new and spectacular Bellevue Purple Cafe location. Now, that's an offer hard to resist!

And don't forget... every $20 donation through April 1st will constitute an an entry into a raffle for a $100 gift certificate to the Purple Cafe and Wine Bar.

Thank you Purple!

"On Air"

2010-03-28T01:02:00.000-07:00

This past week we were invited by Don O'Neill to speak about our climb on his show, The Ron and Don Show. Such a generous offer! We were warmly welcomed into the KIRO studios around 5 this past Friday. Mandy and myself were given two chairs in the recording studio and greeted with high fives from Don and simple nod and a smile from Ron. Just as the red light flashed "On Air", the guys picked the headphones from off their necks and covered their ears,

"It's hour two here on the Ron & Don show..." booms Don's voice.

We got to watch the show progress live which was certainly entertaining as both Mandy and myself stifled giggles during Don's story of his former after-school, snack-stealing nanny. As the six o'clock hour approached we were told that our story would be featured at twenty after.

Mandy stepped up, speaking on behalf of our team and explained why her grandfather was the inspiration behind her wanting to climb and what our team's goal was. She did awesome! Overall, it was such a fabulous experience getting to watch Don and Ron doing their show live, tour the KIRO studios, and get to speak to Seattle about our mission to get on the top of this mountain.

Don, thank you so much for graciously inviting into your studio and onto your show. Your support has been invaluable! Thank you to the other KIRO employees: Ron, Jason, and Jessica Gottesman who were so kind to us during our visit.

Check out The Ron and Don Show Blog featuring our story! Second story from the top.

k&m

2010-03-22T21:58:00.000-07:00

We just passed the $2,000 mark!

Stacia Davis, Larry Lorenzo and Dustin & Bekah Osterhaus made this possible. What fantastic friends and family!

Only on top can you see the whole view -

can you see what you've done and what you can do -

press on follow your dream! (this quote passed onto me by my Aunt Tanna)

March Update

2010-03-21T22:10:00.000-07:00

We want to say thank you again to everyone who has supported us. We are honored to be sharing our stories with you of who and what have inspired and challeneged us to climb.

We have raised $1,842

We have $8,158 to go

There are 70 hopeful climbers. We have to be 2 of the first 40 climbers to raise the minimum set by the ALA to climb on the 2010 Clean Air Team. Help us reach the fundrasing goal and make the team.

THINGS TO KNOW

1. $100 Gift Card to The Purple Cafe and Wine Bar
Donate $20 and you will be entered into a raffle for a $100 gift cirtificate to the Purple Cafe.

Drawing will be held March 31st, 2010.

2. Garage Sale
Katie's parents will be hosting a benefit garage sale.

When: April 3rd

Where: 1459 N. Baltimore Tacoma, WA 98406
How to get involved: Donated unwanted items! For all donated items sold- proceeds go to the Amercian Lung Association on behalf of our team. We will come pick them up! Let us know when and where.

The Purple Cafe and Wine Bar is simply fabulous. Thank you to them for their generous donation for this month's contest. How we love the Purple Cafe!

k&m

Mandy's Story

2010-03-21T19:17:00.000-07:00

George S. Butler, died from complications of emphysema. He was a life-long smoker.

He was my grandfather.

My grandfather joined the Army Air Corps in 1942 and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force. He served along many other great men in WWII. To pass the time between combat missions he smoked. Smoking was a part of daily life; something to do, something for reprieve.

During and after WWII smoking was socially accepted. Big advertising promoted cigarette smoking. There was little education about the effect of cigarettes and a general disregard for the warnings of the Surgeon General that came out nearly 20 years after the war.

A habit learned during war time became a habit back at home as my grandfather continued his career with the Air Force and Federal Aviation Administration.

My grandfather made many attempts to quit, never more than when I was born. While smoking around his first and only grandchild would never happen, quitting completely was easier said than done. For me, he was able to turn 40 years of smoking into the occasional sneak smoking, but the damage had already been done.

As emphysema plagued his life I couldn't do more than watch as the breathing became harder. Walking turned into a marathon endeavor, and my grandfather became chained to his oxygen tank.

My grandpa survived a war; he survived combat missions; he survived being shot down over enemy territory, he flew countless hours for the United States Air Force and FAA; he even survived cancer and peritonitis. My grandfather didn’t die from the war; he didn’t die from a plane wreck; he didn’t die from cancer; he died from cigarette smoking.

“I love yous” are rarely spoken, but actions are taken perhaps even more seriously where I come from. My family isn’t good at words. My grandfather wasn’t nor am I.

And now… I am going to climb this mountain to say "I love you, Grandpa".

~Mandy

The "Big" and "Little" Battle

2010-03-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy week. We have both increased our training, and significantly refocused on the intensity of this climb. Saturday morning, 8 am, we headed off to Mt. Si in North Bend. The morning commutes of both last weekend's and this weekend's hike sounded similar as I, the non-morning person, couldn't believe we were up at such an early hour. I will take full responsibility for my attitude, eagerness, and energy as I had been visiting friends in Bellingham the night before which led to a bedtime sometime around 4am.

For the record: totally worth it. We reached Big Si by 9ish and took off into the forecasted "...gorgeous day ahead with sun for the morning and afternoon and temperatures of up to 70 degrees..." A recipe filled with Northwest adventurers, boy scout troupes, and families, Big Si was further garnished with the unexpected backpacker, toy dog, and toddler. The climb is 4,167 feet and 4 miles from the parking lot to the summit plateau. Four hours of

sleep and sore

from the previous day's spin and weight session, Big Si provided me with a much more arduous climb than times before. Mandy kept me

motivated and on task as we climbed. The summit, worth it as always, provided a

warm welcome with the warmth of the sun on our skin, fresh air in our lungs, and view of our goal at hand, Mt. Rainier...

The plateau's energy, certainly more than my own, even came with its own soundtrack with a group of young men

enjoying the opportunity to play their fiddle for those that

would stop and listen. Our goal was to summit in two hours. While, the dragging of my feet didn't speed us up by any accounts, we managed a timely accent not far from our goal pace. At the trail head, we were welcomed back by being boxed in by two other cars! Who does that?! Mandy's superb maneuvers behind the driver's wheel and my direction

from outside the vehicle, we managed to 'scrape' by and get on our way home. Big Si down, Little Si to go... Sunday morning was our 2nd training hike with the other Climb for Clean Air team members. We met in the Little Si parking lot that quickly went from being dusted by mist to overwhelmed by rain. Without delay, us hikers threw our packs on the ground searching for rain gear: outer shells, pack covers, gators, etc. One member of the 2010 team is Brett Martin, a friend from college. I had no idea that he was going to be joining this year's team so, the random nature of now seeing him at our training hikes has been really fun. In the true Northwest fashion, we took off, rain and all, to train with the help of Little Si. While, the mud and the rain didn't seem to catch

anyone off guard, the pace our guide kept certainly did. "I felt like I was running. I am a little person, with little legs!" cried Mandy as we took our first break alongside the trail. The pace was indeed fast but it felt good to keep a quicker

pace than we last did at Rattlesnake. Upon reaching trail's end, most of the crew was gasping for air. "That was quite the pace you kept..." One hiker exclaimed. Our guide smirked. I am certain he was thinking to himself, "mission accomplished." Feeling full of the energy I lacked the day before, the physical push felt good. On the other hand it brought up the intensity that will be Rainier. Many of the climbers were faced with their weaknesses. "Well, I certainly know now that I am far from ready," pronounced fellow climber Mark. As we continued on, so did the rain and by the

end of our trek we were all wrapped in the rain's slippery sheen. Little Si is a baby compared to its mama at only five miles round-trip and gaining 1,200 feet. So, in this weekend's the battle of the Si's... which did we favor?

DIFFICULTY: At 4,167 feet and 8 miles round trip, our vote... Big Si
SCENERY: The green moss, sheer walls of grey rock and variance in terrain, our vote... Little Si
SUMMIT VIEW: The peaceful stoop surrounded by grey mist, tree-covered mountain peaks that is Little Si compared to Big Si's stretched view of Seattle, Bellevue, the Cascades and haystack rock, our vote... tie OVERALL: While for training purposes, Big Si is where it's at, but the varying trail grade, flora, and fauna of Little Si offers competition, our vote... tie

Look for our March update out this week via email, letter, and blog...

This week's "AWESOME LIST": Kailyn Sylvester, Uncle Bill, and Professor Brotherton. Thank you thank you for supporting us!

k&m

Brunch with Don O'Neill of the "Ron and Don Show"

2010-03-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

$10,000 is a lot of money but 14,410' is a lot of climb. Honestly, I was expecting the latter to be the hardest part. Climbing stairs, up and down Mt. Si, heavy packs and thin air all in hopes of summitting of Mt. Rainier but come March 10th, it hit me how truly difficult the fundraising was going to be. We had only raised $1,300 and barely in the top 40 climbers, we were in jeopardy of losing our spot on the 2010 climbing team. Over 25 hand addressed letters with hopes of sponsorship stuffed inside laid strewn across my desk and as I pushed them aside, I decided to ask for help. I went to mynorthwest.com and typed in "The Ron and Don Show." Don O'Neill, host of one of Seattle's most popular talk radio shows (and a rad radio show if I may add) was a member on the Climb for Clean Air's 2009 team. Don not only had to have the knowledge of how to prep for the physicality of the climb but certainly had to have the know how of how to raise the funds. On hope and a prayer I asked Don to accept myself as a friend on Facebook along with a message, "Don, we need your help! Do you have any fundraising suggestions?" With the week full of sponsorship denials, I was shocked to get a reply from him within the day, "I have a ton of ideas. I'd be happy to help. Let's meet up and talk."

At 1pm on Sunday, we met up with Mr. Don O'Neill at Queen Anne's Toulouse Petit Kitchen for brunch. I will admit, after listening to this man on the radio, I was slightly imitated to talk with him. Why? Well, he's a radio host- loud, opinionated, boisterous- you get the picture. While I love him for it on radio, I wasn't sure how it'd work in person. *Shocker* He was still opinionated, proud, and blunt but SO sincere, SO generous, and SO compassionate about our climb, our cause, and who we were as a whole. It was just what our team needed.

Our meeting started out talking to Don about his own ascent, "You know, not everyone is going to summit. Honestly, only 7 out of our 20 person team made it to the top... you'll know where you are physically on day one at summit school...that's when you know if you're going to have a chance of making it." We continued on discussing training techniques and tips on getting physically prepared:

1.Train in your plastic boots
2. Stairs at Discovery Park
3. Climb Muir at least three times before your summit attempt
4. Take spin class
5. Wear that pack

Don explained to us that the mental challenge is as difficult as the physical one, "Come prepared having trained, but also come knowing what you are capable of and why you are climbing 'cause once you strap your crampons on... it's GAME ON."

The discussion then moved onto "our stories." Don really moved both of us by genuinely asking us who we were climbing for and why we personally wanted to summit Rainier. True, Mandy and I had discussed the basics of our desire to climb but we had not ever shared "our stories" with anyone before. Don emphasized the importance of sharing these while fundraising and reminded us that we shouldn't feel bad asking people for money because it should be an honor to ask our friends and family on behalf of "our stories" and it should be just as an honor for those to donate. I had never thought about it as being an honor. I unfortunately had seen it as a task. Something to check off the to-do list. But it really is an honor. I am honored to climb on behalf of "my story" and I sincerely hope that you will have the honor of donating.

Don climbed on behalf of his dear friend Brad Perkins who lost his battle with cancer in 2008, "I took Brad's ashes to the top of the mountain and let them fly in 50mph wind..." He reminded us that there is a powerful story behind each of us climbers and donors. We should be honored to train, climb, and donate because of each one of them.

Mandy and I ended brunch feeling pumped up for what's to come. We may still be at our $1,400 mark and be hanging on to keep our spot in the top 40- but we have a greater faith in why we are doing this and who we are doing it for. We have faith that it will be done. Don really helped us to find our focus, and find the heart behind this climb.

BTW- If you haven't already, you should: Listen to our friend Don on the "Ron and Don Show" weekdays 3-7pm on Kiro 97.3fm

Thank you Don O'Neill for taking the time to talk with us today! We feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to share this wonderful adventure we are on. Thank you for listening to "our stories," discussing our team's future, and the support you have offered to both Mandy and myself.

So, you ask, "what is 'our story'?"

Stay tuned...
k.

*Shout out to Mr. Mattson, Ananda Osterhaus, Katie Christopher, Rashida, Katy Coffey, and John Osterhaus for your generous donations! From the bottom of our heart... thank you.

When you don't have time to hike a trail...

2010-03-14T15:34:00.000-07:00

Mandy: I can't say that this part of the year is easy for me. I am working nearly 60 hour weeks and fitting time in for training is nearly impossible. 'Nearly' leaves space for heart and determination though. While I couldn't muster changing out of my PJ bottoms on Saturday morning, I did manage to strap on my backpack, trekking poles in hand, and start up the winding hill my parents live on. "Urban Hiking." Who needs a trail? Find a path, an incline, your spirit, and go with it.

Katie: I was also pressed for time to hit the trails this weekend. Saturday, I participated in the Tacoma St. Patty's Day 5k alongside my brothers Bryce and Dustin and sister-in-law Bekah (who placed first in her division!). The morning was full of sunshine, sweat, and spectacles of green. On Sunday, Mandy and I met for some more urban hiking. While we left the PJ's at home, I'm not going to lie about how hard it was for me to get up so early, especially due to the fact that it was Daylight Savings. It went something like this:

*ring* *ring*
"What?!"grumbles Katie.

"Good Morning! It's a gorgeous day for a hike!" Mandy said as though she was on a sunshine high.

"It's too early," Katie fires back.
"I'm two exits away. See you soon" Mandy sings along with the birds.

I sulked to the door with my hair tousled, face frowny, and eye's barely open. The air and sun remedied my early morning tantrum like medicine and we headed off to St. Edward State Park in Kenmore.

A fun fact about this particular park is that before 1976, St. Edward State Park, was actually St. Edward Seminary. It operated 46 years as an institution developing Catholic priests and in 197o my father was a 16 year old student living and studying at this school for the purpose of priesthood. Well, actually... my grandmother's intention for sending him there was for the above mentioned purpose, but my father would have rather been anywhere else, hence leaving the school after only one year and opting for public education instead :)

St. Edward Park consists of 365 acres of lake front and trails. We shared the trail down to the lake with only one another trail runner and enjoyed the exertion of the steep grade. We continued onto Jaunita Drive, the stretching sloped road that connects Kirkland to Kenmore. While we wanted to conclude all 5 miles of this route, Mandy and I had a meeting to get to that afternoon and we didn't want to be late. We bookmarked our course mark for next time and headed home...

k&m

We wouldn't be doing this without you! Thank you thank you... Sarah Johnston, Claudia Davila, Marc DuCharm, Ruben, Shawn Chittle and Brett Martin.

Rattlesnake Ridge: 1st Training Hike

2010-03-07T00:33:00.000-08:00

$1,105.00 is what we have raised thus far. Woo hoo! Thank you so much to all that have donated. We are so, so, so thankful! We still have $8,895.00 to go though, and that ain't no small feat.

The American Lung Association (ALA) is holding training hikes every two weeks for all of its 'clean air' climbers. (Like I mention in yesterday's post, while there are 70 hopeful climbers this year, only 40 spots are available to partake in the Mt. Rainier summit this coming

July. The first 40 climbers to raise the funds required by the ALA will get to climb this year- the rest will have to try again next year) While we are still playing the game of "raising the money" training hikes are open to all 70 of us hopeful climbers. Today was the first hike. About 30 climbers, including our guide "Fireman Mark," met at the Rattlesnake Ridge at 8:45 am.At promptly 9am, our trekking poles, 15 (training) lbs. accounted for in the backpack, snacks, and our eager spirits embarked on our one hour trail tour.

It was a fun trek as we chatted with other aspiring climbers, discussed fundraising techniques, and swapped stories behind our desire to summit our gorgeous mountain.

One story in particular really touched my heart. Fellow climber, Shirley, explained to me that in 1962 her father had been diagnosed with lung cancer. Shirley, only 16 years old at the time, had been recommended by doctors to have her lungs scanned- this was procedure at the time, as cancer was thought to have been a genetic or even contagious disease. A large mass was subsequently found in her thoracic cavity and surgery was eminent for this newly made Varsity cheerleader. Shirley, reminisced that the thought of having to leave the cheer squad she had worked so hard for, seemed like a death sentence to her

sixteen year old being. Tears welled up as she continued on with her story... "My dad took me

aside and told me, 'Shirley, this is life and death. I know how hard you worked for your spot on this team but I promise you that if you have this exploratory surgery,

I will work with you every day until you have recovered enough to cheer again.'" Shirley agreed. Surgery was no joke- her sternum was cracked open, her chest spread. What it revealed was shocking: an overdeveloped thymus gland. Completely abnormal, nothing severe, but certainly not cancer. While, the finding was great news- recovery from this type of surgery was intense.

Shirley continued on, "My dad kept his word. He worked every day with me to get me back into shape, to recover from such an intense procedure. And not only did I get better- I cheered at the opening football game." Tears fell from Shirley's eyes as she continued, "My father died 2 months after that game."

k&m

Who rocks...? Tyler Kopkas, Bryce Osterhaus, Cal Dauncey, Nova Schauss, Jen Bruce, and Adam Zachary. Thank you for your support!

Cookies for Clean Air!

2010-03-06T15:22:00.001-08:00

There are 40 spots on the 2010 climbing team and as of now there are 70 climbers hoping to make the cut. The FIRST 40 climbers to raise the required funds will be given a spot on this year's climb. Help us be two of them!

This coming week, March 8th-14th, donate to Team Matterhaus and receive a delicious batch of homemade chocolate chip cookies. Donate Here