Sweet Success

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

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.

Summit Success!

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!