Viewing Post for: 2011 Kilimanjaro Climb for Cancer

Date: February 27, 2011
Location: High Barafu Camp, 15,650

Real deal today. This is no walk in the park. On the upset stomach list are Sam, Myra, Angela. That is not unusual at this elevation but it is not fun. Many others have a good headache going on. Jane made it here, a huge accomplishment. All are resting in the tents now for dinner and then 10:00 pm wake and departure. We will climb about 4,000 feet, 1.5 miles and it will take 7 hours. That will get us along the rim at dawn. The whole curve of the world will be seen. Then 3 hours descent to this camp. Nap an hour or two around noon and then 4 more hours of descent before we finally can sleep.

Now we are each dealing with the unknown and wondering about our bodies. Our nap will be restless, getting up will be freezing cold...

We will update you as best as we can tomorrow. Climber safety is our first priority. The satellite gods have not been good to us, some post are being sent at 2:30 am to find a satellite. The combination of factors means we won't be able to post from the summit. We will try to get the summit post with a list of each person up by 8 am your time but no guarantee so please be patient. Stay tuned!


Messages for this post

For: To? FOXIE

FOXIE----can hardly believe my "Sister" is climbing and doing all these adventurous things----I'm proud and envious and excited that you are still the "leader of the pack"!! I know you'll have a million things to do on your return but would love to get a call from you and hear all about your next adventure----STAY SAFE GOOD FRIEND----THINK ABOUT YOU EVERY DAY AND WISH YOU GOD'S SPEED-- CAROL G.................


CAROL GORRELL - 3/2/2011

For: (Ate) Myra

Hello there!!! Oh man... we're so sorry you're feeling badly again... We're thinking of you... Lots of Love sent from Us!


Court & Monina - 3/1/2011

For: Angela & TJ

If you can dream it, you can do it. Walt Disney Angela, You did it, You and TJ dream of Jaquie,So you climbed the mountain of your heart, and faith to touch her. All things are possible when you beleive. She is so proud of both of you. She held your hand the whole way.Have a safe journey home.


Cheryl Antkowiak - 2/28/2011

For: TJ and Angela

The two of you are amazing in doing what you have done! Angela you have re written the book on what a girly girly is,one that has set a goal and reaches it without makeup. TJ you continue to amaze me in everything you do! I am very proud of the two of you and can't wait to have a beer with you when you get home.


Uncle Mark - 2/28/2011

For: TJ & Ang

I can't even imagine seeing the sunrise at the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro,what a beautiful site that must have been to see!!! Can't wait to hear all about it. Very proud of you both !!! Sue


Sue Czapla - 2/28/2011

For: Kon

Hi! When we are typing, you guys most probably on descend to the camp. Congratulations! You made it. We love you and very proud of you accomplishments. We will try to follow your posts. We are all OK, enjoying Costa Rica ( no internet) Be save, recover, have fun.


Mom and Me - 2/28/2011

For: Myra

What an incredible journey that ur on!! So proud of ur dedication to a great cause. You've been in my thoughts and prayers since u started this adventure. I'm sure ur in awe of the breathtaking views. Heard ur experiencing some pain. Hope u've adjusted and are feeling better by now. YOU have the mental toughness and attitude to overcome ANYTHING. Looking fwd to seeing pics and hearing more about this awesome experience! "Concentrate grasshopper!" LOL :)


Rowena - 2/28/2011

For: Myra

You're almost there and we're sending all our support and well wishes! Enjoy your view from the top!!!! Stay safe always!


Marlyne - 2/28/2011

For: TJ and Angela

wow - what an amazing journey. You're almost there - stay strong and be safe. Your proud families and friends await your arrival back home.


Wendy V - 2/28/2011

For: Everyone

(continued) Get back safely, and congratulations on such an amazing feat! And for Kon, as always, I love you very much and am so proud of you!


Megan - 2/28/2011

For: Everyone

Hi! I've been thinking about the whole group all night. I just looked at the clock and it's midnight here, which means you've probably already made it to the summit and are heading back to camp. I can only imagine how difficult and rewarding this whole journey has been, and I have so much admiration for all of you. Whether you were able to make it to the summit or not, in my book, you're all amazing and inspiring! I hope that those who haven't been feeling well soon find some relief. Get back s


Megan - 2/28/2011

For: Ernani and Noel

Hi! You most likely are already celebrating at the summit! We are all waiting to hear from you.... I love you guys and we are all sending you hugs and kisses from far away. You have a lot of hearts and minds with you up there! Be safe as always, especially on the descent. Stay vigilant and make it home safe. Your choice for dinner on Friday! We love you! Sarah


Sarah - 2/28/2011

For: Myra

Myra, sending you all my good vibes and oodles of my best karma! And love, too! xoxoElena


Elena - 2/28/2011

For: Angela and TJ

(cont)... Ang, way to represent us cousins! I know she's so proud of you both, just like we all are! Please be safe, stay healthy and tell Jax how much we all love her and miss her...and that nothing will ever be right without her! Still sending lots of love and strength your way!!! xoxoxo


Kerri - 2/28/2011

For: Angela and TJ

I'm totally stalking this page non-stop anxiously waiting to hear that you and the group have made it to the top! I'm so excited that you guys really did this! I hope it was worth all the sickness, headaches, achy muscles, and restless nights! You're so close to heaven and Jacquie! I am so so jealous right now! Although deep down I know she's been with you the whole way up with mountain and celebrating with you at the top! TJ, you're the best big brother she could ever ask for! Ang, way to repre


Kerri - 2/28/2011

For: Myra and Ivan

Myra: So here's the deal... As you approach the summit, let Nugget take the lead. Then, just a few meters before summit, push him out of the way, and run past him to the top, yelling "VICTORY! I AM THE VICTOR!!!" Just make sure you don't rip any of his skin-tight shirts in the process. He doesn't like when that happens. Happy Summit, you guys! We're thinking of you!


Rizzo and Maria - 2/27/2011

For: To Ang and TJ

Wish I was there to take in the view with you guys. I know that Jax is there with you! We are all so proud of your accomplishment!! Come home safe! We can't wait to give to a great big hug and give you your WELL DESERVED Mighty Taco!!!


From Danielle - 2/27/2011

For: Mom (Lourdes) & Gabe

Almost to the top!!! Keep on pushing!!! Hope ur feeling well.Love u and miss u tons. P.S. Dani got into Miami already. xoxoxo


Jessica - 2/27/2011

For: Kevin, my husband

Sure you made it to the summit ok! Had no doubt you would! Good luck on the way down. Stay away from the "wild" animals on the safari :) Peace & love


your wife, B - 2/27/2011

For: Angela & TJ

can't wait til ur both home & able 2 share this incredible experience that I know will have a huge inpact on ur lives, & your future. Love always, Mom/Aunt Sheryl


Mom/Aunt Sheryl - 2/27/2011

For: Rick

watching your progress.spoke to Marcia,doing well.Praying for successful climb and return to base. Dad


Dad - 2/27/2011

For: Angela & TJ

If my calculations r rite..ur at the top of the world! U MADE IT! While I'm typing I'm crying,both because I'm so proud of both of u,& because I can only imagine how u must b feeling physically & emotionally.I hope ur physically able 2take in everything around u & appreciate all the hard work it took u 2 get there!Ur incredible-I am in awe of u-& so proud.(Now Angela,just b careful going down-those damn trees are everywhere!)Enjoy the rest of ur wonderful trip-can't wait til ur b


Mom/Sheryl - 2/27/2011

For: Kevin

By the time you read this you will have reached the summit. I have so much enjoyed reading this blog and all the posts. I look forward to it every night. You have no idea how proud we, your family, are of you! Poppie is watching over you, I know, as well as our other angels. That has made it a bit easier for me as far as worrying about you goes. Stay strong and safe on your way down and take lots of pictures of the tremendous view. Look forward to hearing from you soon.


Tracy - 2/27/2011

For: T.J.& Ang.

T.J. I knew all along if you were able to train to be an ALL American diver the mountain couldn't hold you down. Stay tough. Looking forward to all those great pictures. Loads of LOVE.


Nana & Gramps - 2/27/2011

For: Lise and the Whole Team

You have almost reached the summit and soon you will have a view of nearly the entire earth. As we look apon your achievments in a cancer climg and your personal donations we know that charlie and all the other cancer victims would be proud. Keep climging... and we'll give cancer a run for the money.


garret (Lise's grandson) - 2/27/2011

For: TJ & Ang

By the time you read this you will have made it! I've been following the updates and think about you and your journey everyday! So proud of you!!!:) Sue


Sue Czapla - 2/27/2011

For: TJ and Angela

YOUR ALMOST THERE!!! I am so proud of you both!! Angela I'm so sorry you are not feeling well, I know it will all be worth it though when you are standing at the top! TJ I read your dads post about your dance moves and had a little giggle, we will be doing many shots the next time we go line dancing! LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH!!! YOU ARE SO CLOSE!!! We are all cheering you on and believing in you every step of the way!


Whitney - 2/27/2011

For: Myra

Sis, you're almost there! I hope you're doing ok. I'm so proud of you and I love you! HERE'S TO YOU: "Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So. . . get on your way." - FROM Dr. Seuss (gotta love the Seuss!)


Gail - 2/27/2011

For: Kevin

The prayers were said yesterday and today my friend. Please be careful and have a safe journey. You are in our thoughts.


Jen - 2/27/2011

For: Valerie

I am so excited for you..In few house you will be at the summit..Enjoy every moment of it.. I don't have to tell you. If you have something to write on, write down what you think and what you feel. I am sure that will be worth reading years later..I have been bragging about you to everyone i know.. I am at Charlotte now but will make it back to Rochester on time to see you next weekend.


Madura - 2/27/2011

For: Lise (Mom)

By the time you see this you will have hopefully reached the summit. I know I have said it before but I am so proud of you, you are an amazing mom and grandmother and my boys are lucky to have you to look up to. Charlie is smirking somewhere with his sideways smile and thinking, "Damn, the old bird really did it!" You are celebrating Charlie's life in a beautiful way and somewhere he is dancing his ass off and celebrating this victory with you. I love you Mom.


Bianca - 2/27/2011

For: Angela and TJ

By the time you read this I will know that you have already reached your goal and made it to the top. I'm so proud of you both and can't wait til you come home and show us pictures. Always believe!! I love you both so much!


Aunt Deee - 2/27/2011

For: To Kevin

I had planned to stay up and see if there was a post around midnight, but now will check in the early AM. Hope all are doing as well as possible. You are all admired so much for this trek! May God bless and keep all of you safe....


From Jane - 2/27/2011

For: Valerie

It seems that it didn't post all of my message. So, i continue.. I am sure you will get to the top with your big smile and endless energy. And we will see pictures of you from a summit with BD posters. YOu probably will read it after your BIG DAY, but i still wish you luck, and we all thinking about you (and have a drink for you) in this warm and cozy room :)


Natallia - 2/27/2011

For: Angela and TJ

So the Oscars are starting now but in just a few hrs you guys will be walking an even better red carpet right to the top!!! I feel so bad that you're getting sick. Just keep thinking how far you've come and that you're doing something that the rest of us can only dream of! Sending all my strength your way! I'm so proud of you both and knew you would conquer this! Always believing in you! Love you and miss you so much!!! xoxo


Kerri - 2/27/2011

For: Valerie

I am reading this blog and thinking that why we are sitting in this warm room with TV, you are already started your final climb in this freezing weather. It is really hard to believe. You are so close to the target and i am sure you will make it. I cannot imaging what kind of experience it is. Something tells me that this is just a beginning for you, and this won't be the last journey. According to the blog, that is a tough time for you right now. I still have no doubt that you will get there wi


Natallia - 2/27/2011

For: Sam

Wow....unbelievable that you are at 16000 feet....likely higher by the time you read this. I'm sure the rewards are worth the upset stomach! Proud of you, Sam - and think you're incredible for attempting this.


Mom - 2/27/2011

For: TJ and Angela

I know you won't see this until after you reach the summit, but I'll pretend you will.We are cimbing each long and difficult step with you.When you stumble,we will be there to help you up, when you may not think you can go any further,we will be there to give you strength,when your breathing gets hard,we will breathe for you.We are with you and we are so very proud of you.Love Jacquie and mom


Jacquie/mom/AS - 2/27/2011

For: TJ and Angela

Almost to the top....Accept where you are, remember where you've been, but most importantly know where you want to be.


Brenda - 2/27/2011

For: Joan, Jane

I'm so conscious that RIGHT NOW is when the struggle for the summit is underway. I've connected with some web sites showing videos taken by others on this last part of the venture, so have some idea of what you may be like. I admire you both so so much. I hope you are safe, but imagine that the rewards of this attempt will be a highlight of both your lives. Bless you both.


Pat - 2/27/2011

For: Valerie

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!! You are so awesome! You are not on the upset stomach list, so what's a headache, really? Headache is just an excuse, you know (see me winking here and I am not a hallucination). Btw, it had been noted by doctors that headaches are cured with sex, though I doubt this is something you can opt to there. By I digress. Big, awesome day for you tomorrow!!! Big, BIG, HUGE!!! You can do it and brag to me about it later. Love you! You are great!


Zoya - 2/27/2011

For: Ernani and Noel

I can't believe you are almost there! I am so excited for you guys! Can't wait to hear about your summit tomorrow morning. I know Mom is there watching your every step. Good luck to you and the rest of the group.


Eleonor - 2/27/2011

For: Ivan

You are almost there. One more push and who have it done. We are very proud of you and we love you.


Mom; Dad & Addie - 2/27/2011

For: To? Angela and T.J.(maximum 255 chars)

You're going to make it all the way to the top! Angela, "fight like a girl!" I know you can do it. Jacquie will be with you every step of the way and she's cheering so hard for you. You two are amazing and I'm so proud of you. Lots and lots of love. Grandma Bree


From? (Grandma Breemaximum 255 chars) - 2/27/2011

For: Kili Climbers

When I returned from Kili, I created a video that I hope to edit with pictures of your climb. I created it to remind all of us that it's not how you get or how far you go, its the difference you make along the way. Your journey is not only an inspiration to so many, but is truly making a difference to so many more. God Bless and enjoy the wonderful air on the way down.


Kili Karen - 2/27/2011

For: TJ & Ang

.. Take it one step at a time and you will be there before you know it! Keep Believing and know that you have soo many people praying for you and thinking of you. I am sending all my love and strength. love you lots and I miss you xoxox Linds


Linds - 2/27/2011

For: To Valerie

Type your message here...Hi,dear. We all very miss you,but we happy,that yoy executed your dream. We hope you feel good. We wish you and your friends good luck. I wrote letter for you yesterday, but can,t send. Right now Natasha was in my home and explained me how I need to send. I am sorry. I read about our trip every day. We all wait you come back.I love you and kiss you. At home everything O.K


From Mom - 2/27/2011

For: TJ & Ang

I am so proud of you both for doing this. You are so close to your goal & I am so excited for you to be so close to heaven. Blow some kisses up to Jax and my sweet grandma. I am sorry your not feeling well Ang but keep fighting..fight like a girl!!!! TJ- I love you so much and I am so inspired by you. Jacquie is so proud of you. Blow some extra kisses up to Jax to thank her for bringing you into my life. We definitely do have an angel watching over us and she is with you right now. Take it o


Lindsey - 2/27/2011

For: Angela

I want you to know I'm following your incredible journey. I am amazed at your courage and such a strong will to get through this huge challenge. I am proud that you chose to do this for your cousin, for your family, and for the fight to cure cancer. I still believe in you and love you very much. Feel better...keep going....keep believing.


Sue - 2/27/2011

For: Lise

We're so excited for you. You should be already on your way, we thinking of you and wishing you a safe and happy trip to the top. We're with you in spirit!!!


Marilyn, Charlie, Mike & Dick - 2/27/2011

For: The gang

To all. Congrats on just being there. Do your best dig deep and let the porters take care of you. We are so proud of every step you take and each step is a victory. Take note of the song on your iPod as you reach your goal. I'm sure it will be forever meaningful. Also just know we know how hard this and you rock! Pole pole on the way down.


Ginny Napier Kili 10er - 2/27/2011

For: Angela

Hi Ang! Sorry you have a tummy ache. I hope you feel better soon, Daddy says think of the pulled pork he makes for you, Mommy doesn't think that is such a good idea. But anyways, Keep strong. Love and Miss you, Hugs and Kisses from your little Man Aiden!!


Aiden XOXO - 2/27/2011

For: All

As I write this, you are about to begin your long journey up to the summit - certainly a night you will never forget. By the time you read this, you will be on your way down to thicker air. No matter what happened in between, remember that you all summitted the minute you got on the plane to Africa. You are ALL HEROES in our minds and in our hearts. Congrats for making the trip and inspiring everybody with your incredible journey. Proud to have you all in the family!


Paul Artruc (Kili '08) - 2/27/2011

For: TJ & Angela

So close to Summit Day I can't believe it! By the time you guys actually see this you may already be climbing, but good luck! You have more angels waiting for you at the top than most people could wish for. Be safe, can't wait to celebrate when you return!


Kristen - 2/27/2011

For: All

I can't believe Bruce Batman McLellan has not sent a message to you yet with a new song. So since he's not there to sing to you here are some words from his song that we all sang when we were climbing. (Rick - you need to sing this just like Bruce now) "Just one step, one step more, to the ceiling of the world on Tanzania's shore. Just one step, one step more, Think of all the people we are fighting for."


Sadie - 2/27/2011

For: Angela (continued)

You can do it and we're all cheering you on! Keep believeing and keep walking. Love, Sadie


Sadie - 2/27/2011

For: Kili Team 2011

Rick, Yusuf and Kili Climbers! Congratulations on making it to Barafu and being just hours away from seeing Uhuru! We are all thinking about you back home and praying for a safe climb to Uhuru and return to Mweka camp! Have fun and don't forget to enjoy every minute!! xoxoxo Elizabeth


The Delicate Flower - 2/27/2011

For: Angela

You're probably freaking out because your stomach is upset.It's okay-it happens and you can still keep going!Last year Nicole threw up at the summit behind a rock.It was pretty funny.The point is even people with upset stomachs go all the way.AND look at how far you've come already-no matter what happens you have succeeded!Keep walking and focus on the breaks.Muhammed is great about knowing when to break so just focus on the next one.If you need to drink your juice do that for a burst of energy.


Sadie - 2/27/2011

For: TJ & Ang

You guys have come sooooo far!!! You have made it to the LAST LEG of the trip! You guys have persevered through so much. I hope you all know how proud of you both we all are!! You'll be back before you know it, on lower ground, drinking beer and getting iced, eating whatever your heart desires, being with the ones you love. Sheryl was so right, Jacquie will never leave you! We know she is with you every step of the way; as are all of us. You are in our hearts and on our minds all of the time. G


Alicia - 2/27/2011

For: Myra and Ivan

Good luck today!!! Will be thinking of you both.


Rivka - 2/27/2011

For: Kevin

health.


Chris - 2/27/2011

For: Kevin

Getting to the top is optional, but getting down is mandatory. A lot of people get focused on the summit and forget that. Ed Viesturs Tomorrow is what every one has been preparing for. Now the going will get tough and the effort/suffering/endurance/exhaustion/exhilaration more than most everyone has experienced in their lives. Hope the excitement of summit push makes everyone feel their best and that all can summit but at the same time listen to their bodies and turn back if necessary for their


Chris - 2/27/2011

For: Kon

Hi! Happy summit day (I think it will be summit day when you read this, anyway)! I know things must be pretty tough at this point, but I have faith in you! I know you're going to get to the top and remember the whole experience and come home and tell everyone about it. You're always on my mind. Be safe and take eveerything in! I love you.


Megan - 2/27/2011

For: Foxie

Amazing job Mom - you are my hero, but that was the truth long before you decided to take this little walk :-) Take it easy and be safe - We love you very very much! xxoo ML, Dan, Emmie & Augy (along with a load of people we are keeping updated)!


Mary - 2/27/2011

For: Jane

Good luck and Gods speed Mrs. Napier! Wow pretty cool.


Richard Lifka - 2/27/2011

For: To Ang and TJ

Stay positive and BELIEVE you WILL make it! We are all cheering for you and miss you dearly at home. When you need help ask Jax for strength, she is with you guys every step of the way! I love you both!!


From Danielle - 2/27/2011

For: TJ and Angela too

YOU Can do it! BELIEVE...we do!


Sara in Albuquerque - 2/27/2011

For: Jane

HOORAH!!!!!!!!!!WOW!!!!! You can do it. You are almost there, on Top of The World. Be safe


Sue - 2/27/2011

For: Angela & TJ

Angela: Im soo sorry ur not feeling well..my heart goes out 2u.Try 2stay strong-only another day or 2 & u will b feeling much better-1 foot in front of the other & ur sunrise will b something that only the strongest of strong will ever get to c. 2 all of u: my heart & prayers go out 2 everyone..ur truly an incredible group of people! Ang & TJ please no that we r with u all the way,as well as r Angel. With all my love & pride, Mom/Aunt Sheryl


Mom/Aunt Sheryl - 2/27/2011

For: TJ and Angela

going to the top.You and your group are so amazing,and with every second that passes, my admiration for you increases.What pride Jacquie must feel, knowing what you are enduring for her and others.I can't wait to hug you!! Love, mom/AS


mom/AS - 2/27/2011

For: TJ and Angela

I'm sorry to hear that some are not feeling well, if I could, I would make it all go away and have everyone feeling better.I know this must be such an exciting time for you, so close to your goal, the top of the world and Jacquie.Stay focused and remember "The only courage that matters is the kind that gets you from one moment to the next".You are strong,you are courageous and you BELIEVE-that is what will take you to the top.We are soooo proud of you and our love will help you keep go


mom/AS - 2/27/2011

For: valerie

wow its really pretty up there, you can see all the clouds....your really high up! good that your not on the upset stomach list(: when you get higher up, i hope you feel okay. your almost there....keep going. everyone misses you....see you soon!


tanya - 2/27/2011

For: Angela & TJ

It sounds like this is such a difficult time for everyone. Please remember that all of us at home, & around the world, are cheering you on. I know u can get thru this challenge. Remember, fight this mountain like so many people are fighting cancer. That's what this journey is ALL about. I love u both, stay safe, stay strong. xoxo


Moo - 2/27/2011

For: Dad

Hey dad hope you are feeling ok!! Almost to the top :) mom and Kelly are coming out to Albany for a visit!! Keep up the good work!!


Cathy - 2/27/2011

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