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AMY MICKS
In February 2004 I took on a challenge of my own choosing that set a new course for the rest of my life. Summiting Kilimanjaro was evidence that I had survived my own battle with breast cancer. It was at the top of this spectacular mountain that my idea for UPKILI® CLIMB FOR BREAST CANCER was born. I had a dream to share that same experience with as many other survivors and supporters as possible. I couldn’t think of a better way to raise awareness and money to help FIND A CURE! |
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TREVOR
WIESKOPF
(Montreal, Canada)
My journey to the
Highest Freestanding Peak in the World started 3 years ago when my
wife, Randee was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. People climb
for different reasons, whether for recreational or for a cause.
I could not think of a better cause then that which we live with
everyday of our lives. Everybody is touched by Cancer at some
time in their lives. You just never expect it to hit so close
to home. I
am very privileged to partner with the Cedars Cancer Institute. My
goal is $20,000 in sponsorships. |
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BECKY WESTBROOK (Texas, USA)
In 2002, I saw the IMAX Kilimanjaro... climbing it became a personal goal. Tsunami hit the Indian Ocean December 26, 2004 and since then I have worked to rebuild lives on Sri Lanka. Now, the dream of Kili is coming into view. I am honored to climb with UpKili. My grandmother, my sister-in-law, Janet, and my friend, Claudia have been affected. I climb to celebrate their survival and hope to boost the funding needed to save others. Please join my passion for life and the mountain. Join me today in the fight and encourage me to the top! |
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CHANTAL LALIBERTE (Connecticut, USA)
Throughout my journey with cancer, Kilimanjaro represented hope and light at the end of the tunnel.
In January 2008 I celebrated breaking through that tunnel in a very special way as I made my way to the
top of Kilimanjaro with UPKILI®. I knew then I would be back! Having the opportunity to climb while raising funds for breast cancer research was truly a thrilling and rewarding experience. When you can be of service to others, surround yourself with natural beauty and have fun at the same time, there is no greater joy. |
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As part of the 2010 UPKILI® climb, I am spearheading a group of climbers who will be fundraising for Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. For more information send me an email. |
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CHAR COOPER (Connecticut, USA)
As a Nurse Practitioner I am very aware of the chaos cancer can cause. I have shared in the challenges cancer creates with family, friends and patients. That’s why I am so excited to combine a life goal (climbing Mt Kilimanjaro has been on my vision board for many years) with an opportunity to raise funds for a great cause. I plan on climbing Kili to fulfill a dream and in remembrance of those that have lost the battle with cancer, in encouragement of those that still struggle, and in celebration of those that have conquered cancer. |
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Susan G. Komen for the Cure® |
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NANCY SUTHERLAND (Connecticut, USA)
When my friend Chantal approached me about the Upkili® climb, I was challenged by the idea of climbing to the altitude of Kilimanjaro which will introduce new hurdles for me to overcome and will require serious training. Then I started to think about my husband, John, who is in currently in treatment for advanced, aggressive prostate cancer. This climb will be my way to walk his same path—to share in a journey that will be life-changing for each of us. The mission of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® resonates strongly with me, so I’ll be asking all of my family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to support my effort to raise the awareness of breast-cancer and to find a cure. |
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Susan G. Komen for the Cure® |
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BOB MYERS (Connecticut, USA)
As a member of the medical profession, I am very familiar with breast cancer and the havoc it plays in people's lives. On a personal level, I have friends who have survived it and those who have not. With the UPKILI team, not only do I get a chance to hike and see the beauty that is Mt. Kilimanjaro, but I also get to do this for a worthy cause. I am a big supporter of the fact that all donations go directly to breast cancer research and not to my climb. I will be climbing for an extraordinary personal experience, the memories of those past, the fight of those who have survived, and the continued support to find a cure. |
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Susan G. Komen for the Cure® |
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LINDA MARKARIAN (Connecticut, USA)
When people ask me why I do the things I do, my response is generally “because I can”.
For example, I recently grew my hair long enough to cut 11 inches off and donated it to Locks of Love – “because I could” and it
was for a good cause. So... When my DragonBoat teammate, Chantal, asked if I’d be interested in the Kilimanjaro climb for breast
cancer, I said “Yes”, because ”I couldn’t think of a reason not to” and “I can” therefore “I will”. It’s a great way to raise money
to support a good cause. As I climb, I’ll be thinking about my cousin who was only 31 years old when we lost her to breast cancer. |
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Susan G. Komen for the Cure® |
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ROBBIN SINCLAIRE-CHENIER (Iqaluit, Canada)
Far too many of us have been affected by cancer either by supporting someone who is battling the disease or facing a diagnosis of cancer personally. In January 2010, I will be climbing Kilimanjaro to celebrate those who have bravely faced this challenge head-on – and continue to do so – and to recognize the health care professionals who provide invaluable and ongoing care. I will be raising funds for the Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre so that fewer of us will be affected by cancer in the future.
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When making donation please direct your donation to "other", and enter "Kilimanjaro-Robbin" in the area labeled "If other, specify:" |
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DENNIS REID (Gloucester, Canada)
I am a pain specialist at the Ottawa
Hospital. I have many patients who have chronic pain after surgery,
radiotherapy and chemotherapy for breast cancer. Twenty five percent of
women who have surgery for breast cancer develop chronic chest and arm
pain. This is unacceptable and requires investigation, which in turn
requires research funding. My climb is in support of this goal. |
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CAROLE CHARBONNEAU (Verdun, Canada)
I’ve been involved in the Breast Cancer Foundation activities for more
than five years. As one of
my relatives died of the disease this summer, it struck a chord. I was
looking for a greater commitment to help the cause, and when I heard
about the Kilimanjaro climb organized by Amy Micks, I decided to join
this extraordinary journey. I
am a trekking lover and climbing this mythical volcano will be a
challenge for me. It will
be an honour for me to live this unique experience with all these
courageous women and their supporters. Together, we are stronger!
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When making donation, please enter "Carole
Charbonneau Kilimanjaro 2009" on form |
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CHANTALE GERMAIN (Mont Tremblant, Canada)
I will climb Kilimanjaro
in honor of those who lost their battle with breast cancer, those still
fighting it, their family and the survivors of the disease. For me, cancer
carries faces which I know and I love. When I think about it, it could be
my daughters, it could be me... I am in great health... It’s easy to
take it for granted, isn’t it? If you know me, you know that I always
aim higher. This time it will be as high as Kilimanjaro!
Hoping that one day cancer will disappear forever. |
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When making donation, please enter "Kilimanjaro 2009" on form |
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CAROL DAGGIT (Surrey, Canada)
I am a 2 year breast cancer survivor.
It was with the excellent care of my doctors, and the support of
my family, friends and community that helped me get through.
I feel strongly about giving back to the breast cancer community.
When I heard about Amy’s climb up Kilimanjaro I felt that this
would be a great way to fund raise for the cause.
My daughter, Hailey is climbing with me.
It is my wish that a cure be found for breast cancer so that our
daughters will never have to endure this disease. |
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HAILEY
DAGGIT (Surrey, Canada)
When I was 13 years old my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer.
It was really hard for me. I
like to think of that year as a test on the strength of my family, and
my mom alone. One of the
reasons I was so scared was because I have always needed my mom for
support; but, in this case she needed me. This past year I lost my
grandmother to lung cancer. It made me realize how cancer can take loved
ones so quickly. I will do
anything I can to help get the message out and find a cure. |
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HEATHER LOEFFELHOLZ (Kanata, Canada)
Seven years ago I set a goal to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro.
I decided to combine this with a greater goal.
Breast cancer affects all of us.
I will climb for the past as my mother in law Joyce celebrates 5 years
cancer free. I will climb
for the present trying to accomplish a dream, and all those women
currently engaged in the battle of their lives.
I will climb for the future as I show my daughter the importance
of dreams and never giving up. Help
me make a difference in the lives of others. |
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ALIZAH
JESSA (Toronto, Canada)
My grandmother and mother both climbed Kilimanjaro. They are 2 of the
strongest women I know. When I heard of the UPKILI®
CLIMB FOR BREAST CANCER, I
thought it was a perfect opportunity to combine my dream with contributing
to others. Breast cancer has touched my life and I am always struck by the
courage and strength that I have had the privilege to witness. With the
help and support of my parents, my family and my friends, I will reach the
summit and surpass my fundraising goal!!! |
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SUSAN
WATTS
(Toronto, Canada)
In 2005 I was diagnosed
with breast cancer. Having completed treatment, this climb
presents an opportunity for me to reclaim my body. As with all adversity
there comes learning. I came to learn very quickly how many
people I had in my life who were happy to do ‘anything’ for me. This climb is also my opportunity to fundraise in order to provide assistance to others. I have
lost dear friends to breast cancer, I will take their spirit with me.
Most importantly, my two daughters Leslie and Abby, are
climbing with me. Together, the three of us will conquer our fears
on Kilimanjaro!
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LESLIE
WATTS
(Toronto, Canada)
My mum, Susan, was
diagnosed in the spring of 2005. I had never experienced
something so devastating as watching my mum go through her fight. I am doing the climb with her and my sister,
Abby, to celebrate my mum's success. I feel incredibly honoured that we
can be beside her as she proves that she can accomplish anything she puts
her mind to. My mum is my hero.
She is a truly amazing woman and an inspiration to me during any hard
time. I'm so excited that we can face this challenge together!
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ABBY WATTS
(Toronto, Canada)
In 2005, my mum was
diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a huge reality check for us, and my
family is so lucky that my mother is now healthy. After never-ending
treatment, she is now healthy. I feel so lucky, happy and thankful that
even at her weakest, my mum still had the strength to beat cancer. (But
deep down inside, I never doubted her for a minute.) I am doing this climb
to show that after cancer, my sister, mum and I can handle anything that
life throws at us. I need to show myself that I can be as strong as my
mum.
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CARMEN PUYO
(Toronto, Canada)
I began my career as a fitness professional at the age of 19. In
January 2005 I helped train 5 climbers for
UPKILI®
CLIMB FOR BREAST CANCER.
They
inspired me to join the 2008
UPKILI®
CLIMB FOR BREAST CANCER,
and volunteer to work at an orphanage to help the women and children in
Africa. In 2006 my half sister passed away at 32 from breast
cancer. In 2007 my best friend, Kelly McIvor was diagnosed with breast
cancer and is currently locked in battle with the disease. Both Kelly and
Ayah are my inspiration for this journey to Africa. |
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LESLEY WILKINSON (Toronto, Canada)
In 2004 I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Following my treatment, I was
given a clean bill of health. It was at that time I read about Amy Micks
and the
UPKILI®
CLIMB FOR BREAST CANCER
Research. I promised myself that when I recovered I too would climb as a
way to give back. I am so l grateful for the friendships and kindness that
I shared during that time. Those friendships will help me to reach
the summit at 19,340 ft.
I am excited and looking forward to the adventure ahead of me. |
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DAWNA SATOV (Toronto, Canada)
I
have always wanted to climb Mt.Kilimanjaro.The opportunity presented
itself when I heard of the UPKILI®
CLIMB FOR BREAST CANCER group. I now
have the opportunity to fundraise for breast cancer while reaching my goal
with breast cancer survivors and their friends and family. I know it will
be an unforgettable exhilarating experience. My goal is to summit and have
raised at least $5,000! |
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PEGGY CUMMING (Ottawa, Canada)
Since camping at the base of Kilimanjaro 36 years ago, my dream has been
to climb the mountain. Since being diagnosed with breast cancer 21 years
ago, my goal has been to live each day to the fullest. Now, I look forward
to a new goal of fundraising for CBCF, in hopes of eliminating the
‘Breast Cancer’ diagnosis for future generations. Another dream-come-true
is that my daughter, Megan, will join me; her
determination has always been inspirational. To my friends and
family...your energy will spirit my journey. |
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MEGAN CUMMING (Ottawa, Canada)
I was eight years old when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. I
didn’t understand what an impact it could have on our family. But I was
lucky – my mom, Peggy, beat breast cancer and has been my role model for
ever since. Climbing Kilimanjaro has
long been one of her dreams, and has become one of mine too. When Peg
asked me to join her on the UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer,
of course I said yes! This will be the most memorable climb
for us both. |
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KELLY JUDGE (Castleton, Canada)
It
has been a lifetime dream for me to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. I found out
about the climb from a very dear friend who was diagnosed with breast
cancer and has fought her way back. I was very inspired to climb when I
found out I could climb for a great purpose. I lost my Mother last
November and I feel that she is cheering me on and will be with me as I
make my way to the summit. I hope to raise as much money as I can
and maybe together we can all see the end to this life threatening disease.
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JUDY GROSSMAN-LAZARUS
(Toronto, Canada)
I am honored to participate in this climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro in support of
the UPKILI®
CLIMB FOR BREAST CANCER. I know this will be one of the most
enriching and profound experiences of my life. My goal is to raise at
least $5,000. My thoughts on Upkili will be of my many family, friends and
supporters who have shared their experiences about this dreaded disease. I
thank everyone who has supported my efforts to raise money for this most
important cause.
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DIANE BROOKS (Mississauga, Canada)
I lost my aunt and my sister to breast cancer. More than 10 years ago I
did my first fundraiser for breast cancer research, proudly raising $300. I
have continued these Journeys of Hope, most recently in Paddle to a Cure’s
100 km kayak trek, raising an incredible $15,000. My inspiration is all of
those who have fought the battle, especially those who are fighting the
battle today. These loved ones will be very much with me as I ‘take the
fight to new heights’ by climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, My goal this year
is to raise $25,000. |
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DERYL EMPSON (St. Albert, Canada)
There are some life experiences that
have profound influence in your life. Having a spouse diagnosed with
breast cancer is clearly such an experience. Seeing Mary Ann deal with her
diagnosis and how she’s grown after her treatment, has been the most
significant experience in my life. One of the consequences of our breast
cancer experience is the involvement with survivors - a group of people
who share a flair for life and a commitment to get out of it as much as
possible. I am looking forward to the challenge of Kilimanjaro inspired by
people with so much energy.
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MARY ANN EMPSON
(St. Albert, Canada)
Even though it has been eight years since my diagnosis of breast cancer, the
impact it has had on my life is irreversible. An opportunity to climb to the top
of Kilimanjaro will be very symbolic, especially with others who have shared the
same experience. I am very excited to share this experience with my husband of
30 years as well. I have met so many wonderful women through our dragon-boat
team and my climb will be dedicated to those Breast Friends and other dragon
boat racers who have succumbed to this disease but are still with us in spirit. |
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JOANNA CHRYSTAL
(Toronto, Canada)
After hearing about Amy's adventure in 2004 as a participant in the CIBC Wood Gundy Climb for the Cure, I had been inspired to join the UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer up Mt. Kilimanjaro. Breast cancer is a challenge we take on without a choice and we fight the battle in the best way we know how. As a survivor of this life-threatening disease, I have realized the importance of living every day to the fullest, and in taking part in the adventures I have always dreamed of doing, but never thought possible. I'm proud to be climbing with my daughter, Haley.
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HALEY HIGDON
(Toronto, Canada)
When I heard that my mom, Joanna Chrystal was going to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro I was determined to go along. In the seven years since she was diagnosed with breast cancer I have watched with respect and admiration as she bravely took on the fight with cancer. She has taken up challenges both mental and physical.
Mom inspires and fills me with pride when she tells of her many adventures and travels around the world. It will be an honour and a privilege to accompany
her and with the other brave survivors and supporters on this amazing adventure. |
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JOHN KARAGOSSIAN (Toronto, Canada)
Since childhood, I have watched documentaries,
read books and listened to beautiful poetry about the awesome ice caps of Kilimanjaro. Imagine my excitement when I had the opportunity three years ago to work in Kenya for a month. Unfortunately I could not arrange to make the climb up the glorious mountain that I’ve dreamed about since childhood. Then, my girlfriend Maria, told me about
UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer. There was no hesitation. I am so grateful for a second chance to fulfill my dream, and as a bonus, I get to do it for a great cause.
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MARIA PARUSIS (Toronto, Canada)
Breast cancer has affected my family ever since my mom, was told she had breast cancer.
She fought her way through it, and is now living life in a much greater
fashion! When my friend Pam Jackson, told me that she was training for the UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer , my decision was made! Both John
Karagossian, my boyfriend, and I will be climbing. Breast cancer can hit any person at anytime. The more we do, the more we can prevent
it. We will be above the clouds in more ways than one! |
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KAREN PANZER (Mississauga, Canada)
I am a 9-year breast cancer survivor and have always led a healthy and active lifestyle. I learned dragon boating while sharing the message that there is life after breast cancer. By climbing Kilimanjaro, I strive to inspire and motivate others. I will be carrying a special package in my backpack
- the spirit of many survivors who continue to fight breast cancer, as well as those whose spirits have past. It is with Amy's inspiration and encouragement that I look forward to attaining one of the most challenging and rewarding of life's experiences.
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KATHY NG (Thornhill, Canada)
I'm a 4-year breast cancer survivor. After going through the grueling treatment I found myself recovering slowly and I finally awoke. Lance Armstrong’s recovery and success was a great inspiration for me. Life did not end there! I realized I could do even more, such as taking on the challenge of hiking the beautiful mountain of Kilimanjaro! Since Amy told me about the climb, I finally told myself I can do this! Yes I am going to do it to fight Breast Cancer for all of us women and men out there! Come join me OR support me. |
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MAGGIE LONEY (Toronto, Canada)
I first heard of the climb from my friend Pam Jackson, who battled breast cancer a few years back. I have also lost
two sisters to cancer one to breast cancer and the other to cervical cancer. Because of my family history with cancer I started living an active life style.
It's never too late to be active. We can climb this mountain for all who cannot
do it, and inspire those that can - all in a hope for a cure.
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MARJORIE RAMSDEN
(Scarborough, Canada)
I am looking to the UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer as an opportunity to give back to the cancer community. After my recovery from breast cancer treatment in 2002, I was introduced to the camaraderie and physical exhilaration of Dragon boating. Inspired by my husband, Michael Ramsden, a Wood Gundy Investment Advisor, who organized the inaugural CIBC Wood Gundy Climb for the Cure trek up Kilimanjaro, I am approaching this challenge with the same tenacity and generosity of spirit that I have drawn upon all my life.
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MATT DODSON (Lake Tahoe, USA)
As Tusker Trail’s Expedition Coordinator for the 2006 UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer, I was introduced to many courageous
women. Their fighting spirit and tremendous strength seem to shine through with every conversation I have with them. I look forward to sharing with them this experience of a lifetime.
Joining me on the climb will be my wife, Tara. I hope I can raise awareness for this worthy cause that may, some day, contribute to saving the life of a loved one. |
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TARA DODSON (Lake Tahoe, USA)
Recently, my Aunt was diagnosed with the disease. She did not let on how bad she was, so our family did not take the news as seriously as we should have. It was only after my grandmother flew from Hong Kong to be with her, that we realized how bad it was. My Aunt has since gone through chemotherapy, had one of her breasts removed and has had reconstructive surgery. I know she is doing well and feeling much better and I pray the cancer does not return. I will be thinking of her and climbing for her every step of the way!
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PAMELA JACKSON (Toronto, Canada)
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer 3 years ago, I thought it was the beginning of the end. It was in fact the beginning of a very active life style. I joined a dragon boat survivor team and was inspired by many incredible survivors. There is life after breast cancer, pushing physical limits and having fun! As I climb Kilimanjaro, I will be mindful of those battling the disease, and draw from their courage and spirit. I will climb in memory of my mother-in- law and all those we have lost. It is my hope to see a cure within my lifetime.
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PAULINE AUTY (Toronto, Canada)
I was diagnosed with breast cancer 7 years ago, on my 54th birthday. While
lying in hospital isolation, I remember seeing a group of breast cancer
survivors on TV as they raced their dragon boat. I promised myself
that if I live through this challenge I’ll find ways to celebrate the gift
of a strong, healthy body. I am blessed to be climbing with my daughter Trudie and some dear survivor friends. Ultimately, climbing Kilimanjaro is like living with breast cancer; we meet the challenge alone - one brave step at a time. |
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TRUDIE HYNES (Etobicoke, Canada)
7 years ago I learned that my mom, Pauline Auty, had been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. My world
fell apart in an instant. Over the long months I watched with pride as my mother challenged this horrible disease, and ultimately triumphing. As a survivor, my mom
kayaks, hikes and races dragon boats. I feel that the best way to show my support for mom was to climb with her on the UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer. All the survivors who are climbing have welcomed me with open hearts - I feel honoured to be climbing with them.
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SHOSHANA BURGETT (Chalfont St. Peter, England)
I was diagnosed at 36 and underwent a mastectomy in April 2005. I am
climbing for the
Breast Cancer Haven, which supports physical and
emotional needs of those affected by breast cancer. By providing support
and complementary therapies, Breast Cancer Haven helps women and men
transform their lives and their sense of well-being. May a cure be found,
and may everyone have a safe place, a shoulder to cry on and a support
structure to help them through. My climb will free the old spirit and
allow the new one to shine through and say "never again." |
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VALERIE KRAUS (Devon, USA)
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996 at 44. I am joining the UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer to mark my 10-year anniversary as a survivor and to celebrate all that I have accomplished since my diagnosis. I am amazed at the experiences I have had and the people I have met since then. I am climbing to honor all those who have helped, supported and challenged me.
I’m raising money for
Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Their mission is to empower women affected by breast cancer to live as long as possible with the best quality of life. |
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MICHAEL HENRY (Peoria, USA)
In 2005 I traveled to Northern Ireland and
taught under privileged children. I discovered how humbling an experience serving others could be. I am honored to be joining
the UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer group that will climb to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro as a fundraiser for breast cancer. Having had family stricken with breast cancer in recent years puts this troubling disease and life itself into perspective. I hope to be an inspiration to others on this climb and to bring a greater awareness for the need for a breast cancer cure. |
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SYLVIA RAK (Toronto, Canada)
I was introduced to the UPKILI®
Climb for Breast Cancer by my friend Joanna Chrystal,
a breast cancer survivor on a mission. Having witnessed how several of my close friends learned to deal with their fear of living with cancer. I have become keenly aware of my own fears. Here is my chance to step up to a 19,340-foot plate and face my acrophobia all in the name of a great and worthy cause. Together we will tackle the insurmountable, bring awareness to a higher plateau and conquer this debilitating disease.
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GWEN FRANKLAND (Petrolia, Canada)
I have been a breast cancer survivor for 29 years. I first heard of the UPKILI® Climb for Breast Cancer to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro from my
dragon boat team manager. I decided that there was no question. I would just have to join this amazing adventure. This great effort to scale the world’s highest solitary mountain should give hope to others who have been diagnosed with this disease. For the climb,and for the cure, I'm more than ready to go. |
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ALISON CURTIS (Toronto, Canada)
Climbing Kilimanjaro first crept onto my “to-do” list in 1990 when I saw a
cloud-free view of the peak while on a safari in Kenya. While going
through my breast cancer treatment in 2003, I heard that Amy was planning
to climb Kilimanjaro. I decided then that once my treatment was over,
climbing Kilimanjaro was going to the top of my list of things to do!
This past summer, on August 1, 2005, with the help of my friend and
co-climber Deb Wallace, I reached the summit of Kilimanjaro and fulfilled
my goal! |
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DEB WALLACE (Toronto, Canada)
During my friend, Alison’s breast cancer treatment, I wasn’t able to provide her with much support. So when she approached me with the idea of climbing Kilimanjaro, I realized that here was my chance to help her reach her goal. Little did I realize that on the climb, it would be Alison who would be
my
support. I knew that my physical challenge on the climb was nothing compared to what she endured. Alison’s courage during her fight with breast cancer became my motivation to tackle Kilimanjaro, which we did in August ‘05!
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KATA VUKOVIC (Peterborough, Canada)
I have always led an extremely active sporting life. In 1979 I was
diagnosed with breast cancer, and had a mastectomy in 1980. The
cancer did not change my view towards sports. I joined the local breast
cancer dragon boat team, and later became the fitness instructor. There is
a beautiful life out there, and many happy experiences to share, in spite
of cancer. If I can help one person to feel that, then I have done
something good. Climbing Kilimanjaro with the Survivor team is not only my
personal endeavour, but also my encouragement to all to live their dream. |
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CATHY TSILFIDIS &
LUC SABOURIN (Gatineau,
Canada)
My diagnosis one and half years ago seemed devastating at the time. Since
then, I have endured chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy.
However, I have also realized more than ever that I have a wonderful,
supportive family and amazing friends. I have met an incredible group of
women who have lived through the same experiences and who I am blessed to
call my friends. Living with cancer has taught me that it is
important to start living today instead of dreaming about tomorrow. Luc
and I will tackle the mountain together, just as we did the disease. |
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SUE SCHARF-GREEN
(Hamilton, Canada)
Karen Panzer hosted our
Toronto Masters Dragon Boat Christmas party
in late November.
There she planted the seed that indeed I could
take part in this amazing journey.
I will endeavour to grow these windfalls given
to me by making this charity climb. I will use my
inheritance from my late Aunt Isabelle, and
the $2,000 dollars I was awarded a couple of years ago from Industry
Canada, my employer. I feel very privileged to be part of this
climb with Amy and Eddie!! |
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