Pikes Peak Challenge hike

[tommy]

Hello everyone. I've posted about this previously, but as time gets closer, I wanted to give it its own thread. On Sept 11th, I will join a bunch of folks including my brother and dear friend on an annual charity hike up Pikes Peak. The charities are the Brain Injury Association of Colorado and Memorial Hospital's Think First program.

I'm thrilled about the opportunity to have a true "mountain top" experience. It will be my first 14'er hike (14,110' at the top). We talk in here about going "over the mountain" and getting hit by a truck/bus on the way. Well, I will be hiking up to the top of the mountain and riding a bus back down! I love the symbolism of victory over valve disease. I will be thinking of you and celebrating for/with you as I reach the top. I still get weepy whenever I stop and consider how far my body and spirit have come since AVR. It is truly a miracle of our Creator's healing, modern medicine, and skilled hands.

I've attached a PDF file with more information including the opportunity to contribute if you wish. No pressure. Seriously, I suggest that you consider contributing to VR.com first, and if you wish to help the BIAC and TF as well, that would be great. If not, that's fine too. Please know that you have already given me a great gift of encouragement and support through VR.com.

My main purpose with this thread is to share the joy, to encourage others that there is life after valve surgery, and to thank my friends at VR.com for your support and encouragement. This is an amazing place and you are amazing people. Thank you.

PS. My 50th birthday is the day before the hike. What a way to celebrate!

[M&M]

Tom, I would love to hear all about your adventure. Please post how it went and every tiny detail. I think that's just awesome and I bet the view at the top will be beautiful.

Have FUN :-) and I hope you had a Happy Birthday :D
Runner (Marilyn)

[kevin21]

Holy Cow!!!

It took us almost an hour to drive up that sucker last year (about this time). Of course, we were going s l o w.

Good luck and i hope you have lots of fun. It can be a little cold and get you pretty winded up there!!!

I live in Houston which is at or below sea level so heck 500' is a high elevation. No wonder I got winded!!!

[labguides]

After the Pikes Peak Hike, do let us know it goes. Sure will be thinking about you. That is a great accomplishment!

[Buzz Lanning]

Tom (I think),

Good luck on your hike to the summit. I've hiked to the summit 4 times; once during the Pikes Peak Ascent race (back in 1989). I'm only 5 weeks post-op, or I'd join you!

If you have any questions regarding the hike, just send me an email reply. Save your energy for the last 3 miles from the A-Frame to the summit (11,500' to 14,110'). Once again, good luck & congratulations on your recovery.

[tommy]

Thanks for the tips, Buzz. The bulk of our group are repeaters, and they have a great booklet to help with prep and things to bring. It pays to be prepared.

I'm wondering just what that high air will feel like.

I hope to get some pictures along the way and at the top (weather permitting).

[tommy]

I'm packed and ready to go in the morning. 2 days to get acclimated. The hike is Saturday. Photos on the other side.