Path to a Cure

Sweet Success

2010-03-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

Displaying the flags. We are honored to represent PHA and all of the supporters who have made this a success.

A view of the glaciers on the top of Kilimanjaro

Many heartfelt thanks to everyone who has followed along and supported us. The words of encouragement carry us quite a long way. Our success is not just ours, but rather, it is the success of every person who quietly followed the blog, of every person and group who helped donate or raise funds, of each hospital, PHA, and corporate sponsor who dedicated resources to this adventure, and certainly, of every patient and family member who is afflicted by PH-- this success is yours.

Despite the immense undertaking inherent in this trek, despite unforeseen obstacles (e.g. my illness), and despite any pervasive thoughts of doubt, we singularly forged ahead with grit and determination. We all agreed that summit day was the hardest thing that we have ever done... and it was done for the unified cause: a path to a cure.

Developing PH

2010-03-03T11:45:00.000-08:00

Dr. Frantz's GPS altimeter. ...tech-toys...

Pulse ox documents an oxygen saturation of only 70%, heart rate of 129 beats per minute. Without doubt, the "thin air" of exteme high altitude was causing PH in the climbers.

A few video clips

2010-03-03T11:39:00.000-08:00

Climbing Ravines while transversing the plateau

Over the river and through the wood, its into the clouds we go...

Climbing Baranco Wall

Her Majesty of Landscapes

2010-03-03T11:15:00.000-08:00

Above... a daunting view of the majestic Kibo as our trek brings us ever so close. Standing before us, beckoning to us, we tingle with excitement and anticipation, squelching any self-doubt that may dance across our thoughts.

A picture of clouds? Look closer. Floating amid the clouds, you see Her Majesty peeking through (what a tease). When I first looked at this, I too mistook it as a cloud. Then, as realization settled through me, all I could think was, "Oh My God... we are going up there!"

Beautiful landscape of the Shira Plateau.

An Unexpected Surprise

2010-03-03T11:02:00.001-08:00

There was a total of 12 climbers in our trek up Kilimanjaro. An unexpected but delightful surprise, this dirty dozen became a cohesive team, building friendships that will likely long surpass our short tenure on the mountain. Countless times during this adventure, the power of teamwork and friendship manifested itself in the most unexpected places.

Video from Shira Cathedral

2010-03-03T10:57:00.000-08:00

We scrambled (climbing without ropes) up the slopes of Shira Cathedral as an aclimization climb, as well as for the spectacular views.

Early hiking

2010-03-03T10:46:00.000-08:00

Getting Started

2010-03-03T10:35:00.000-08:00

Hi All! Finally home after a long trip home. Due to technical difficulties in our plane, we were delayed in Tanzania for an additional 24 hours before we could begin the journey back home.

This was the first pic that was taken of the 3 of us, we when first met at the airport in Amsterdam.

Summit Success!

2010-02-26T12:48:00.000-08:00

We are thrilled to report that the K Team (Dr. Benza, Dr. Frantz, and Jessica) reached the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro earlier today, and are descending the mountain as we make this post!

Each Friday morning, the PHA staff gathers for our weekly staff meeting. Today we had an incredible opportunity to have the climbers call in to our meeting as they make their descent. Dr. Benza took a moment to describe his mountaintop experience:

"It was simply astounding being on the top of that mountain...and today it was hard to breathe with each step... We were stressed. It's exactly what our patients feel...so it really gave us even much more of an appreciation for what our patients have to suffer every day of their lives. And that really, really endeared us to them that much more."

So on behalf of the climbers, thank you for the ways you have maximized this unique opportunity to impact PH awareness and support for research and patient-serving programs! Listen to the full "Summit Day" audio interview with the climbers below (interview is in two parts).

Summit Day Interview Part One - featuring Dr. Benza.

Summit Day Interview Part Two - featuring Jessica.

There will be plenty of pictures for the K Team to share upon their return to the States, so stay tuned to this blog!

T-minus a few hours...

2010-02-25T13:16:00.000-08:00

Today Dr. Benza, Jessica and Dr. Frantz arrived safely to camp 5, from which they will attempt to summit Kilimanjaro. The K Team's final ascent begins in just a few short hours (it will be midnight in Tanzania) - and each member of the team is anxious and excited to get started! Hear more from them now and wish them luck in the comments section!

The View from Karanga Camp

2010-02-24T14:39:00.000-08:00

Jes, Dr. Benza and Dr. Frantz each check in from Karanga Camp after a long and challenging day of climbing. All are "doing quite well," particularly Jes, who has recovered from being ill for the last several days. Spectacular views from their camp abound. Our Kilimanjaro climbers are ready for their summit attempt, which kicks off late tomorrow night. Hear more directly from the K Team themselves, and wish them luck - and a good night's rest!

A message from Jessica and Dr. Benza - Feb. 24

(Due to poor satellite reception, Dr. Benza's last few words are cut off at the message's end.)

A message from Dr. Frantz - Feb. 24

True Determination

2010-02-23T16:02:00.000-08:00

Each day without fail, Drs. Benza and Frantz and Jessica dial in from Mount Kilimanjaro with status updates to share with the entire PH community. On Monday, the K Team experienced otherworldly topography and amazing views. They're now facing those expected challenges as well: lowered oxygen saturation levels, increased heart rates, and altitude sickness. But they still press on, fully expecting and determined to reach Kilimanjaro's summit. Hear more about Day 3 of the climb (Feb. 22) from Drs. Benza and Frantz (and feel free to leave some encouragement if you feel led!).

"Live from the Mountain!"

2010-02-22T14:51:00.000-08:00

As the members of the self-described "K Team" make their trek up Kilimanjaro, PHA will be occasionally making posts on their behalf along the way!

Drs. Benza and Frantz, and Jessica are checking in from the mountain each day via satellite phone - sharing with the PH community their thoughts, experiences, humor, challenges and all-around determination. Here are some of their most recent messages:

A message from Jessica and Dr. Frantz - Feb. 20

A message from Dr. Benza - Feb. 20

Finally, take a moment to check out the following video, documenting the personal journeys of PHA’s Path to a Cure climbers. Hear why these dedicated medical professionals are scaling Mt. Kilimanjaro, and share the clip with your local press & friends!

Kilimanjaro arrival

2010-02-19T13:17:00.000-08:00

Update from the K team! We are about to head to sleep (midnite here), in anticipation of hitting the trail in the morning. Thanks to all of you for your support as we walk together on our Path to a Cure. We are energized, invigorated, and not yet acting silly from the altitude. Well, maybe Jessy is a little silly. We are hoping to be able to blog from the mountain, so keep us in mind!

Bob, Ray and Jessy (The Three Musketeers?)

The Path

2010-02-15T22:05:00.000-08:00

The outfitter (mountain guide) gave us our itinerary--our Path To A Cure...

DAY 1 (Feb 19) Arrive anytime at Ilboru Safari Lodge in Arusha, Tanzania. With prior arrangement, airport pick up and private transfers to the hotel are available from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), or simply make your own way by taxi. We will gather in the evening for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance.

DAY 2 (Feb 20) We take a ride to Londorossi National Park gate to complete the necessary registration formalities, before driving a short distance on a steep track through farmland and plantations (9,200 ft). We continue climbing steadily on foot through shrub forests and stands of giant heather to reach the rim of Shira Plateau (11,000 ft). The views across the surrounding plains open up as we approach our first camp, Simba Camp (11,600 ft).[4-5 hours walking

DAY 3 (Feb 21)Today is an easy day to help acclimatisation and to explore the grassy moorland and volcanic rock formations of the plateau. We walk to the summit of Shira Cathedral (12,300 ft), a huge buttress of rock surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles. There is a tangible sense of wilderness here, especially when the afternoon mists roll in. From our camp near Shira Hut (12,600 ft), we take in the unforgettable views of Mt. Meru as she floats among the clouds.[4-5 hours walking]

DAY 4 (Feb 22) The morning walk is a steady climb away from the moorland of Shira Plateau to reach the broad upland desert beneath the Lent Hills, with expansive views in all directions. After lunch in our camp close to Moir Hut (13,800 ft), there is the option of a more strenuous afternoon walk to reach the summit of the Lent Hills (15,400 ft). We can explore the area beneath the Northern Icefields, a remote place rarely visited by tourists, with unusual views of Kibo. Few visitors get to this remote corner of Kilimanjaro.[3-6 hours walking]

DAY 5 (Feb 23)We enjoy a morning of gentle ascent and panoramic views, walking on lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. After lunch at our Lava Tower (14,900 ft), there is a steep but spectacular afternoon walk on the rocky lower slopes of the Western Breach. This afternoon excursion is highly recommended for acclimatisation purposes and for the superb views of hanging glaciers on both sides of the Breach.[4-6 hours walking]

DAY 6 (Feb 24) A steep descent into the bottom of Barranco Valley (12,800 ft) leads us to the famed Barranco Wall and its steep climb. At the top the undulating trail crosses the flanks of Kibo with superb vistas of the Southern Icefields. The terrain is volcanic scree, with pockets of vegetation in sheltered hollows, and a powerful sense of mountain wilderness. Our next camp is at Karanga Camp (13,100 ft), the last water point on the approach to the summit.[5-7 hours walking]

DAY 7 (Feb 25) We follow an easy path on compacted scree with wide views that gains altitude unrelentingly to reach Barafu Hut (14,800 ft) for lunch.There is a short acclimatisation hike to the plateau at the bottom of the southeast valley (15,700 ft). The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the early morning final ascent.[3-5 hours walking]

DAY 8 (Feb 26) We start our ascent by torchlight about 1 a.m. so that we can be up on the crater rim by sunrise. The steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some well-graded zig-zags and a slow but steady pace will take us to Stella Point (18,800 ft), in about five or six hours. We will rest there for a short time to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the two-hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (19,345 ft), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Barafu is surprisingly fast, and after some refreshments, we continue to descend to reach our final campsite, Millenium Camp (12,500 ft).[11-15 hours walking]

DAY 9 (Feb 27) A sustained descent on a well constructed path takes us through a lovely tropical forest alive with birdsong and boasting lush undergrowth with considerable botanical interest. Our route winds down to the Kilimanjaro National Park gate at Mweka (5,400 ft); and on through coffee and banana farms to Mweka village, where we are transferred to Ilboru Safari Lodge in Arusha.[4-6 hours walking]

DAY 10 (Feb 28) After breakfast, we can arrange for a private transfer or taxi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

The PreKili Period

2010-02-15T21:21:00.001-08:00

Last minute preparations, a touch of obsessive compulsive packing, final runs to the local REI, trying like heck during all hours of the night to make the satellite equipment work so we can blog from the mountain, wrapping up projects at work, and cherishing these final hours with my family--this is my present existence. In 36 hours I'll be checking in international, triple checking that I didn't forget my passport. Then, 26 hours after that, we will be in Tanzania, in awe of the culture, the landscape, the stark differences in daily living. In tandem to our amazement, we will find ourselves mentally preparing--and getting psyched up-- for our impending adventure of lifetime.

Thanks to all of you who have supported us, cheered us on.... even those who have placed bets on which of us will or will not make it to the top...... ;-) We thank you all. I deem the past few months in time as the "PreKili Period," and your support has helped us to be successful thus far. Our next adventure (I playfully coin as the Kiliman Period) will challenge our physical and mental fortitude. When we need to reach deep down, your enthusiasm, support, and hope will remind us of our purpose on this trek.

Breaking News

2010-02-11T19:05:00.000-08:00

http://kdka.com/video/?id=68745@kdka.dayport.com

Here is the video (as well as direct link to the website archive) when Dr Benza and I appeared on the KDKA's Pittsburgh Today Live earlier this week.
Great News! We are going to post an update to this blog each day while we are on the mountain!! At a minimum, we will post text messages. If all goes well, we may be able to paste photos and short video clips. With generous donations from both private and pharmaceutical co donors, with the aid of satellites, and with a bit of perseverance and determination, we are going to do what is almost impossible--transmit data from extreme altitude (a feat historically limited to an exclusive few high budget TV/news crews and the military). ...and to think, I was once affectionately referred to as "the computer slayer"...
Six days and counting........

A Gift of Hope

2010-02-08T16:31:00.000-08:00

I am touched, humbled, and reminded of my faith in humanity. This gentleman's wife, a long-time patient of ours, recently passed from PH. When I explained to the Pittsburgh Patient Support Group that extreme altitude will actually cause PH in the climbers and that at the summit we anticipate our O2 sats to be in the low to mid 80s, he volunteered to lend his late wife's pulse ox to us. It has more than average sentimental value for him. In order for her to spend her last hours with her husband coherent and awake, she refused morphine and used this pulse ox as a security blanket... she was reassured when she saw her O2 sat was not dropping.

Dr. Benza and I are extremely appreciative that he is entrusting us with such an emotionally valuable item. Not only will it help us document the altitude-induced lack of oxygen, but also, it shares the experience and purpose with one of our cherished patients. She, like so many other patients with PH, will be up there with us.

Frequently Asked Questions, Part 1

2010-02-03T19:20:00.000-08:00

How long will you be on the mountain?

6 Days up, 1 day for summit, 1 ½ days to get off the mountain

We go up slowly, hiking to higher elevations in the day, then returning to lower altitude to sleep (“climb high, sleep low”) to acclimate. Think: 2 steps up, 1 step down, then 2 steps up, 1 step down…

What’s the temperature up there?

All of the above. The climb begins in the lush rainforests at the base of the mountain, then we proceed through heath, moorland, and alpine desert, before finally entering into the arctic zone. As we gain altitude, the temperatures drop as does precipitation levels and vegetation. While the temperatures in the rainforest are generally very mild, averaging 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, the temperatures during the night ascent to the summit are frequently below zero. Therefore, climbers need to be prepared for a wide range of temperatures, especially extreme cold.

Since it is near the equator, there is no seasonal variation, other than rainy season and dry season. January, February and September are great times to climb, as they are warmer and dryer. Even during the "dry" seasons, climbers may still experience heavy rains. The mountain's weather is unpredictable.

What will be the biggest obstacle to reaching the summit?

The main reason that climbers fail to reach the summit is due to the inability to acclimatize to the high altitude quickly enough. Short of going to high altitude, there is little that one can do to pre-acclimatize before the climb. Being physically fit does not guarantee that climbers can overcome altitude issues…there are marathon runners who don’t make it. In fact, the most common group to fail is men aged 20-30 (because they overestimate their physical ability, go up too fast, then the ladies and the older folks pass their crumpled bodies).

What is our chance of success at reaching the summit?

Overall, only 40% of people who attempt Kili actually make it to the summit. We think our chances will be much better by taking a longer route, allowing more time to acclimate.

Do you really get PH from mountain climbing?

Sure do. As the body goes into high and extreme altitude, hyperventilation results in acid-base disturbances in our bodies, fluids shift into different cells leading to swelling, and lack of oxygen causes our pulmonary blood vessels to constrict—causing pulmonary hypertension. Altitude sickness ranges from “Acute Mountain Sickness” to life-threatening “HAPE” or “HACE” (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema & High Altitude Cerebral Edema—which translates to lungs full of fluid & brain swelling). We will almost certainly all get some degree of Acute Mountain Sickness, which is characterized by severe headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (I expect to feel like I have the worst hangover of my life). We need to closely watch each other for HAPE and HACE. We would know HAPE by symptoms like coughing up blood and gurgling sounds in our lungs. We may not know it ourselves if we have HACE, as those patients get confused, hallucinate, and have neurologic symptoms like a staggering walk. In the case of HAPE or HACE, the only cure it to get off the mountain ASAP, as death can occur in a matter of 12 hours.

At the summit, we anticipate our heart rates to be in the 130s and our oxygen saturation levels to be in the low to mid 80s. The spouse of a patient who recently passed is generously donating her miniature pulse ox device so that we can measure our oxygen levels on the summit.

As we descend in altitude, the pressure in our lung blood vessels will return to normal.

Do you carry everything on your back?

No. Our outfitter includes porters who carry the heaviest loads, such as the tents and cooking supplies. We must carry everything we need during the day between campsites (clothing, food, water, trekking poles, first aid kits, sunscreen, etc). We expect about 20 lbs in our daypacks… although I promise to actually weigh mine and post it prior to departure…

What gear do you need?

I posted a detailed blog on this : http://pathtoacure.blogspot.com/2010/01/lets-talk-gear.html

Quick List: boots, many layers of performance clothing, wool socks with liners, waterproof hiking pants and jacket, poncho, winter gear (jackets, gloves with liners, etc), balaclava, wool hat, sunhat, sunglasses, trekking poles, pack, duffel bag, four-season sleeping bag with pad, hydration systems, water filter or chemical tablets, quickdry towel, toiletries, camera, sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper (I plan to sell for $5 a sheet to those who forget!), headlamp, compass, maps, first aid kits (including blister kit, anti-diarrhea meds, antibiotics, anti-malaria meds, attitude sickness meds (diamox, nifedipine, sildenafil, dexamethasone), painkillers, etc.

Added bonuses: laptop to attempt to download pictures and satellite transmit them to PHA for the blog real-time, satellite phone for phone interviews recorded and posted by PHA, miniature pulse ox to document our oxygen levels at the summit, the PHA flag for the summit photo, the little monkey stuffed animal to pose in the picture with me for my 2 year-old son, Tyler.

Did you need special vaccines or medicines?

As clinicians we already have many necessary vaccinations. Additional vaccines needed for Tanzania are Yellow Fever , Typhoid, Hepatitis A, polio booster, tetanus booster. Some of the meds we will bring are: anti-diarrhea meds, antibiotics, anti-malaria meds, attitude sickness meds (diamox, nifedipine, sildenafil, dexamethasone), painkillers, etc.

In the spotlight

2010-02-01T19:16:00.000-08:00

Just found out today that we were on the cover of Hospital News. Its so great that the media is interested in this... it only helps to improve awareness!

http://www.wpahospitalnews.com/pdf/PHN_01_10.pdf http://www.wpahospitalnews.com/current/default.asp

Step by Step

2010-02-01T18:22:00.000-08:00

In its industrial era, Pittsburgh working class often lived on the tops of the hills, commuting down to the factories on the riverbanks via extremely large sets of stairs. Hidden gems of the city's pragmatic past, there are 712 sets of stairs (totaling 4.5 vertical miles) in the city today. During some of my outdoor stair workouts, I've encountered some intriguing discoveries. Many of these steps are considered on paper as true streets. Don't try to mapquest on the South Side Slopes, as the software engine may lead your car to a left turn down a staircase. I even stumbled upon the occasional house whose only access is the stairs--no alley, no street--just the stairs (imagine carrying groceries).

This photo above is Yard Way, which has 317 stairs.

Here's a few other staircases I tackle.

The picture below shows one of the many staircases with an official street sign.

Cafe Latte?

2010-01-30T17:33:00.000-08:00

Tanzanian law requires that you need an official "outfitter" (mountain guides, porters, etc) to get onto the mountain. Not only does it protect we the trekkers, but also, it gives jobs to Tanzanians. The porters carry the tents and cooking supplies (truly, the heaviest stuff). We carry everything we need between camps. Other than the food we carry during the day, the outfitter provides the food at camp. Typically this means high liquid and carbohydrate content meals. They try to offer fresh seasonal foods when possible (mango, banana, watermelon), and we always have our trusty freeze dried meals (just add water) if needed. Water is treated by boiling. I will also carry iodine and chlorine tablets... just in case. (a case of traveler's diarrhea could be expedition-ending).

In altitude, it is recommended that we drink 4-5 Liters of water per day, and eat lots of food for energy. However, a common symptom of altitude sickness is loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. ...and if you don't eat and drink, the altitude sickness gets worse, etc, etc...

Sadly, stimulants are not recommended at high altitude. So currently, I am in caffeine withdraw (better to deal with fatigue and headaches now than on the mountain). My beloved colleagues at work don't hesitate to tease and temp me with their aromatic mugs of caffeinated paradise... Yup, they're real special.

Unity in the 'Burgh

2010-01-29T18:39:00.000-08:00

Today was our Pittsburgh Support Group Meeting. The Unity Walk consisted of a tour of our basic science PH Research facilities. Everyone loved to see the "laboratory side" of research.-- to meet the scientists who first develop new treatments-- to see the type of work we are supporting in this fundraiser.

Today celebrated the adventure...just see the picture above (Kilimanjaro a la cupcake).

Today, we raised over $3000 for Path to a Cure, which translates to 6K with the match. Woo-hoo!

Many hospital staff generously created extravagant gift baskets and donated them to our Path To a Cure Gift Basket Raffle. People volunteered to staff the Raffle table, selling tickets all week. The Support Group drew the winners today. I am humbled by the benevolence and enthusiasum of my friends and colleagues.

Here's a crazy group of loony-tunes

The Support Group had many questions about the climb. I also got a few critical suggestions that I plan to use on the mountain. One gentleman's wife with PH recently passed. He is donating her miniature (lightweight) pulse ox to our cause--so that at the summit we can document the severity of our oxygen desaturation (we anticipate our O2 sats to be in the low 80s, and heart rates to be 120-140). There was enough generosity and inspiration in that room to move a mountain... or at least, to climb one.

My 2 year-old son and his friends at daycare made these adorable African safari artwork for the Unity Walk! (the lion's mane are paper cutouts of all their little hands!)

Steepest Street

2010-01-26T03:37:00.000-08:00

During my urban night hike a few days ago, we hit Canton Ave, a street with a 37 percent grade, it is debated as one of the steepest streets in the world, and it is paved with cobblestone. It is one of the Pittsburgh "Dirty Dozen," a bicycle race of the 12 steepest hills in Pittsburgh. There are neat Utube videos a cyclists attempting and just falling over. The photo on the left was in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette in Jan 2005.

Here is a recent Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article about Kilimanjaro climb:

www.post-gazette.com/pg/10020/1029420-114.stm

A Glimpse of the Journey

2010-01-20T18:36:00.000-08:00

This video clip is a trailer for a documentary called Kilimanjaro: The Roof of Africa. It is very short, but gives you just a glimpse of some of the extraordinary sights, wilderness isolation, and varying terrains that we will encounter on the mountain.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVhCf1xAE2k

"While seeking the freedom of the hills, we come face to face with ourselves." (Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills)

Jack Frost

2010-01-19T20:04:00.000-08:00

Fog this past week with colder temperatures at night have dipped the entire Minnesota landscape in frost. It is incredibly beautiful, and reminds me that the simple beauty surrounding us can be our sustainer through thick and thin. I took this picture on the way to work this morning. Savoring - the active process of acknowledging and relishing whatever moments of beauty and joy come our way - is one way to achieve inner peace.

Road Closed

2010-01-18T18:37:00.001-08:00

During a big snow and ice storm 2 weeks ago, I went with the local Venture Outdoors club on a 7 mile hike up some ridiculously steep Pittsburgh hills. This hill is Rialto Street, one of the steepest in the 'Burgh. Despite doing a great job treating most hills, the city actually closed this street... but that didn't stop these crazy hikers...

Let's Talk Gear

2010-01-18T17:28:00.000-08:00

Some people have asked me, "What kind of gear do you need?" My favorite purchase, clearly, is the boots. (In the picture, my Asolo boots are in the front, and Dr. Benza's are the solid leather boots).

I had to research and purchase a variety of things. Here are some examples: sleeping bag that can keep me warm (and alive) in below 0 degrees F, trekking poles, a pack and hydration system (so you can constantly sip water), water purifier system, many pairs of smartwool socks and liners, a breathable windproof waterproof hard shell jacket with performance fleece insulating layers, hats, a balaclava (picture: "ski mask"), hiking pants (superduper stretchy for climbing), waterproof cold weather pants (also stretchy), gaiters (not the lizard, picture: 1980's leg warmers that are waterproof to keep snow and rocks out of your boots), goggles, supergood gloves with liners, insect repellent with DEET (say no to malaria), blister kits, medical kits, rope, environmentally safe toiletries, spf 45 sunblock (not much air to shield you from equatorial sunrays), and much much more.

Layering. I now am the proud owner of multiple layers of performance long underwear (wicks moisture away from your skin). Apparently, "cotton kills." Cotton absorbs moisture and holds on to it (think: bathtowel). I wore a cotton sweater on one 6 hour hike; it was soaked and I was really cold. ...Lesson learned. Since we will hike from jungle to artic, and it can be 15 degrees at night yet 60 in the day, we must use layers to temperature control ourselves. Goal is: stay dry.

This weekend I researched some geeksquad-headlamp websites before buying my own. I'm pretty excited about it and will test it out during my 7mile night hike on Thursday.

Tomorrow..... well tomorrow is the official Vaccine-day. There are many infectious risks in Tanzania... Call me pincushion.

Everything has a purpose

2010-01-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

About a year and a half ago at the end of a clinic visit a patient of mine - seems almost odd to say that; she and her husband seem like friends, we have walked this PAH path together for so long - gave me an unusual gift. At first sight this seemed to be a good sized rock with a cut and polished face, like an agate. It turns out that this rather heavy object is in fact Coprolite, or fossilized dinosaur dung. I hoped this was not a comment on my clinical acumen! Knowing the good and jovial nature of these refreshing folks, I thanked them for this rare object and put it in my office, where it has sat ever since. Now I have found its true purpose! Hiking up and down the 21 stories of the Gonda building for an hour after work last night, I carried a water bottle in one hand and my precious dung in the other. It made quite an effective hand weight. After carrying it up and down the stairs, I felt somewhat like the object in hand, looked somewhat like the object in hand, and was tempted to utter a four letter description derived from the object in hand, but did not - Like Jimmy Carter, I have only sinned in my heart. The picture at right shows the aftermath of repetitive dung carrying. Little did you know, my jokester friends, that your dinosaur dung would help to propel me up Kilimanjaro and further the fight to cure PAH!

Route to the Top of a Continent

2010-01-14T20:12:00.000-08:00

The route we chose is somewhat of a "road less traveled." It is not commonly traveled and takes a longer to reach the summit. The popular routes are 3-4 days, and 60% of people fail to reach the summit, largely due to altitude sickness. The Shira route, although more challenging, will afford us better altitude acclimatisation and therefore better odds at reaching the summit.

First we fly from the states to Amsterdam, and from there to Tanzania--24hours of great flight service... We have one day to explore the countryside before beginning our big adventure.

Approaching the mountain from the West, we start our journey by 4x4 through the jungle to reach the Shira Plateau where our trek begins. For 6 days we will hike and scramble, acclimating all the while. Essentially, we take "2 steps forward, one step back"--ascending higher during the day, then descending somewhat to camp at night, which is crucial for our bodies to adjust to the altitude. As we go higher, the temperature becomes arctic, and oxygen becomes more scarce.

On the seventh day, we hike and climb on very rugged terrain for 15 hours to reach the summit!

It then takes 2 days to get off the mountain, both due to shorter exit route and lack of need to adjust to altitude during the descent.

When we are off the mountain, i imagine we will take that desperately needed shower, eat, and catch our zzz's on a bed!

Training with my son Evan, the taskmaster

2010-01-13T20:04:00.000-08:00

As I train for this climb, more so than my last, I continue to recognize how little the general public knows about this deadly disease. This one fact continues to fuel my enthusiasm to make this endevour a success. I truly appreciate all of those who have contributed thus far to our efforts. I hope that many more of our collegues and friends, as well as all those who stumble accross this site, will open up their hearts and wallets to help us combat this disease.

Many people ask me why I climb. My answer is simply, because I can. I know I can push my body and it will respond. This is not a luxury our patients have, so I am determined to climb for them. As we ascend this incredible mountain we will bring with us the determination, fortitude and plight of the thousands of patients with PH with us. We will make sure their call is heard.

Quiet places to roam

2010-01-10T20:05:00.000-08:00

Cross-country skiing in Quarry Hill Park was a lovely way to get in a little more exercise this weekend as we approach 6 weeks to Kilimanjaro. Despite cold weather, there is nothing like a clear blue sky and a well groomed trail to make a winter day refreshingly beautiful and relaxing. May all of you find places of peace, beauty and serenity this week. Nurture for the spirit!

Gaining Momentum

2010-01-10T13:50:00.000-08:00

It is exhilarating, to see so many people come together for a common cause. With all the support of friends, colleagues, and patients, we are really beginning to gain momentum in this effort. Our Pittsburgh PH Support Group is hosting a Unity Walk on Jan 29. Many are donating gift baskets to raffle prior to the event. Even my son's daycare offered to have the kids make African safari artwork to decorate the Unity walk location! The daycare also is making cookbooks to sell as a fundraiser. Colleagues are having "Jeans and Purple Shirt Day" to raise money, and some are even considering an informal "Mini-Kilimanjaro contest" involving an attempt up the 18 floors at our hospital! One friend and colleague
made a Kilimanjaro Facebook acct to keep everyone participating in the events up-to-date.
Dr. Benza and I were even interviewed by a few local newspapers. Here's one article: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_661214.html

I am humbled by the outpouring of excitement and support. It is both staggering and inspiring--to see so many people reach out with their precious time and generous effort, to rally around the common cause of Path To A Cure. It makes my eyes leak... I am so fortunate to be witness to the inherent good being exhibited.

That Slushy Stuff

2010-01-06T14:33:00.000-08:00

Chestnuts roasting? Yule log? Not I this Christmas. I went to NYC to visit my sister. So after a day of exploring the typical Manhattan tourist sites, I went to Pound Ridge Reservation in NY (with less than 2 months left, I can't miss a single weekend of hiking...even over the holidays).

When the weatherman uses the phrase "wintry mix," I usually turn into a pumpkin and proclaim to not know how to drive. Now I find myself tromping through the slushy stuff for hours on end. It was a good test of the gear... It rained and was 39 degrees at Pound Ridge, but I stayed dry. It was also a good mini-test of mental fortitude. The rain essentially disintegrated the paper map. When I got lost, I had the mental image of the map etched in my head, along with some practice with a compass, to get me back on track. I guess I surprised myself. Ultimately, trusting your logic, intuition, and your fellow hikers/climbers are essential to success.

Isn't that what our patients do? They trust us to hold the ropes, and we work together in partnership with them to get to our destination.

New Year Reflections

2010-01-01T17:49:00.000-08:00

This week the full moon lit up my bedroom at 3:45 am as I restlessly lay awake contemplating the past year, Kilimanjaro and the year ahead. I looked at the moon through my little telescope and decided to see if I could take a decent picture of it. This involved finding my camera, trying to line up the lens with the telescope, getting the camera settings right and a bit of fiddling around. Ultimately I produced a decent image and went back to my musings.

It is the time of year for reflections and resolutions. I thought of the power of the individual to effect change, and about a major donation to our Kilimanjaro PHA fundraiser by the brother of a very special person with PAH. What a powerful expression of love! Sometimes when I become concerned about the overall direction of our world, all it takes is an individual act of love, kindness or generosity to remind me of the beauty and strength of the human spirit. Kindness and generosity are contagious. Remember Pass It Forward ? That is the spirit that will carry us through the next decade better than the last. Be kind. Be tolerant. Respect differences. Make a difference. Make your corner of the world a better place, with big or small everyday acts of kindness toward those around you. Blessings be upon you and those around you for the year ahead.

Urban Training

2009-12-24T10:26:00.000-08:00

As you may imagine, Dr. Benza and I are extremely busy, and finding time to train is quickly surfacing as one of our more significant challenges. Integrating training into our everyday activities will hopefully give us the biggest bang for our buck. With offices on the 16th floor of Allegheny General Hospital, one way to maximize our time is quite simply...take the stairs.

(that is, except when i am in heels and a suit)

Please support me, Dr. Benza, and Dr. Frantz in this effort to increase awareness and raise money for PHA.

Devils Tower

2009-12-21T14:20:00.000-08:00

This summer my daughter Christina and I climbed Devils Tower in northeastern Wyoming (the first National Monument, made famous in Close Encounters of the Third Kind). It was a wonderful Father-Daughter experience as she made the transition from high school to college. Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills is a classic climbing handbook with a title that captures so much the feeling of freedom that comes from being on vertical rock or a mountain path. My expression of sheer joy is all about that. Why climb? Purity of effort, simplicity of purpose, freedom from distraction, and what the great Charles Houston so aptly named the "Brotherhood of the Rope". The bond between climbers can be a wonderful thing. On Kilimanjaro, Jessica, Ray and I will share a common purpose and help each other along the way, just as the members of PHA help each other in their ongoing quest to live with and ultimately conquer pulmonary arterial hypertension. Support the PHA Brotherhood!

These Boots are Made for Walking

2009-12-21T04:22:00.000-08:00

People have been asking me, "How are you training?"

Of course, cardiovascular training is imperative. But my theory finds roots from a trek years ago in the grand canyon. At that time, I was in impeccable cardiovascular shape. My fellow hiker was just that... a hiker. As we ascended the bone-jarring switchbacks, she needed frequent breaks to catch her breath, and I felt like I was doing great.... until the next day. Every joint in my body hurt, and I discovered muscles that I only learned about in anatomy class. My friend... she felt great. I learned then that my cardiovascular advantage proved little to prepare me for a strenuous hike. If you are going to swim, you should train by swimming. If you are going to hike up a mountain, you better get hiking...

Pittsburgh has the unique profile of steep urban hills requiring steps for commuters, lending a great training ground outside of the gym. This pic was taken while appreciating the view of the 'Burgh during step training.

Hiking at Kent Falls, CT...

You gotta move it move it move it...

2009-12-17T19:06:00.000-08:00

Over the Thanksgiving holiday I ran four days in a row, fueled by that irresistible pumpkin pie. And then winter set in with characteristic fury here in Minnesnowta. A foot of snow and gale force winds created drifts 6 feet high. So cross country skiing took the place of running, and tonite it was off to the gym for some weight training and quad burning on a bike. In just 2 months we will start wending our way up Kilimanjaro, every step bringing to mind our patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Won't you consider a year end tax deductible contribution to help find the path to a cure? Quiet contemplation leads to wise decisions.

DONATE NOW!

A new team member

2009-11-30T08:43:00.001-08:00

Hey! I just joined the team!

I'm a physician assistant and have specialized in PH for 10 years in Pittsburgh. This climb is a new world for me. The most adventuresome thing I've done is hike the Grand Canyon (2-day hike) about 8 years ago. I'm looking forward to this as I begin my training and researching of gear (will actually get my boots this weekend!). The coolest part of this is becoming intimately acquainted with the shortness of breath my patients experience... and raising money for PHA in the interim!

~ Jessica Lazar

2009-11-24T12:01:00.000-08:00

Perhaps you think I must be some uberathlete who can waltz up mountains like a cakewalk.
Not exactly. When I was young(er) I was a gymnast, and did quite a bit of rock climbing and some mountaineering, including multiple ascents of Devil's Tower and reached the top of Mount Rainier in high school (14, 410 feet).

When I was in college I developed an inflammatory arthritis (psoriatic arthritis; yes, young people do develop arthritis as many of you know from personal experience). This put the kabosh on highly pounding activities for a number of years since inflammation in psoriatic arthritis is pretty use-dependent. I turned to swimming from running to stay in shape (swimming is great exercise and very joint friendly; if you have joint issues and haven't tried swimming, give it a go)! Subsequently my trusty rheumatologist, whose goal is to keep me able to do as many of the active things I like to do as possible, recommended a tumor necrosis factor alpha blocker. I have had my ups and downs with that, but when things are going well, I can once again push myself pretty hard without disastrous joint flares. Better living through chemistry! Living with a chronic disease isn't always easy, but with good medical care, keeping a positive attitude, and controlling the things that are within my control, I have once again been able to do a lot of things I had pretty much accepted as forever in my past.

All of this I mention just to let you know that I too have my own limitations and obstacles, and know a bit what it is like to wonder how one's health is going to behave. Kilimanjaro is going to be a serious workout for my body, but 80% of climbing a mountain is attitude and perseverance.
Three months to go; I am looking forward every day!

Why climb Kilimanjaro for PHA?

2009-11-15T18:23:00.000-08:00

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a curable disease. No, we don't have the cure yet, but to me it is something I am quite hopeful will happen within my career, which has about 15 years to go. We just have to push hard enough, be dedicated enough, climb over every obstacle, and keep pushing just when we feel like sitting down. Kind of like climbing a mountain. And kind of like living with PAH. Our climb of Kilimanjaro honors all those who courageously live with PAH every day, those who courageously have died with PAH, the caregivers who are there every step of the way, the caregivers left behind when a loved one with PAH reaches the end of their struggle.

Every time I see a patient newly diagnosed with PAH, I wonder "Is this a patient who will live to see their PAH be curable?" "How can I help to make that happen?" Climbing Kilimanjaro is all about that. Today I ran 4 miles up and down hills in 44 minutes in the cool air of a Minnesota November, bringing my total for the month to about 20 miles thus far. Kilimanjaro is 19,334 feet (5893 metres) high, with a trek totalling over 40 miles. I plan to be ready.

Come along on our journey. Our goal is to raise $100,000 for PHA, promoting disease awareness and supporting new research to help find the cure. If 10,000 people give $10 each, we will achieve that goal. Only about half of people who attempt to climb Kilimanjaro reach the very top. We intend to make it; your support will energize our every step. Together we will follow the path to a cure!