tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22249186793658963072024-03-04T21:07:28.557-08:00Climbing For A CauseAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-49078108236515512302013-11-13T14:13:00.000-08:002013-11-13T14:13:44.792-08:00The Sad Last Chapter Altitude sickness and cerebral edema are funny things. Random, unpredictable, and sneaky. But the signs and symptoms are undeniable. Vigilance and monitoring are key. So is medical attention when things get bad.<br />
<br />
Today, thanks to cerebral edema, I continue to have fairly significant health problems. I have a "profound" hearing loss in my right ear. I took a heavy round of steroids to try to reverse it but so far no good. One morning last week I woke up with double vision. It still comes and goes, as does dizziness and imbalance. Cerebral edema. The gift that keeps on giving.<br />
<br />
I was starving for oxygen during the trek. How do I know? Our guides checked our oxygen saturation (how much oxygen is in your blood) at least once a day with this little thingie called a pulse oximeter that they put on our finger. For almost the entire length of my trek the oxygen saturation in my blood was in the 70% range. Anything under 90% is considered low. Anything below 88% is dangerous. <br />
<br />
One evening not too long before I decided to turn around my oxygen saturation was in the 50% range. Now this is Low. With a capital L. Your body begins to die because it's not receiving enough oxygen. Many people lose consciousness at this level. I was awake but confused. It was like I was in a fog. I had a blinding headache, nausea, no appetite, and I couldn't sleep. The symptoms had been going on for days. I didn't make it a secret, either. I guess you could say I was a whiner, but in this case a legitimate whiner. I'm pretty sure we had oxygen with us, but I never saw it.<br />
<br />
I alone made the decision to turn around. I descended with my friend Rick and a Sherpa. Rick isn't a medical person, nor is he trained to recognize or treat altitude sickness. What should have been a 2.5 hour trip took almost 6 hours. What a terrible, terrible nightmare.<br />
<br />
I'm thankful to be home but scared and uncertain about my future. I know things could always be worse but I sure didn't see this coming. I hope that with time at least some of this will resolve, but no one can predict a complete recovery. <br />
<br />
I'll keep blogging from time to time. But not about anything as frightening, dangerous, and life threatening as my trip to Nepal.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-65741269694423629242013-11-01T15:33:00.000-07:002013-11-01T15:33:07.070-07:00She Returns, And Not In One PieceI didn't make it to Base Camp. I tried my best and got to 16,000 feet, 1,500 feet short of Base Camp.<br />
<br />
I developed HACE: High Altitude Cerebral Edema. My brain swelled. Not something you want to experience. The easiest (wrong word) way to deal with it is to descend. So I did, to 14,000 feet and the Himalayan Rescue Association, a small hospital staffed with young volunteer doctors. After miserably failing a number of neurological tests and receiving a mega-shot of steroids, I was heli-vac'd off the mountain to Katmandu.<br />
<br />
I'm home now. I'm not disappointed that I didn't make it to Base Camp. I trekked through the Himalayas to 16,000 feet. Me, a 58 year-old woman with bad feet, bad hips, and Parkinson's Disease. Damn proud of myself.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-49981284123053048162013-10-12T11:30:00.000-07:002013-10-12T11:30:05.208-07:00Change in plansArrived in Katmandu on Friday. Our schedule had us leaving for Everest on Monday. Well, there's this giant hurricane hitting India right now and Nepal will get hit starting Monday. We couldn't leave until Thursday or Friday.<br />
<br />
So....we're leaving in the morning by helicopter! Talk about an adventure. We'll be hiking in massive rain until later in the week, but the entire hike is still ON. I'll post again when I can.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-78295906524768492212013-10-02T02:37:00.001-07:002013-10-02T02:37:32.285-07:00On Strength<span style="font-size: large;">I leave this Sunday to begin my trek to Everest Base Camp. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've pretty much said over the last 14 months everything there is to say. You know where I started from, you know the bumps that I've encountered along the way. One thing I want to tell you is that I'm one helluva fighter. Sometimes that word gets thrown around too loosely, I know. Over the last 12-15 years I've been in some pretty rough spots, but never did I feel deep in my heart that I was going to die. I fought to live, not to avoid death.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I would never, never have referred to myself as a fighter before all of this happened. In fact, I used to be one of the most insecure people you'd
ever want to know. I hid it well -- after all, litigation is 50% acting anyway. I never felt comfortable about my own decisions, professional or personal, and
I constantly vetted them to anyone who would listen. I was never brave
enough to step outside the box -- I never wanted to fail. I deferred my decisions to others who I thought were better able to make them. And most importantly, I never stood up for myself.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But it's all different now. Life teaches us lessons, and through those lessons sometimes you get a gift. My gift was strength. I fought over and over again and each time I won. Discovering I had strength was probably one of the coolest things I've ever felt in my life. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And now? Don't mess with me (and that's the clean version). I'll stand up to anyone who challenges my intellect, my abilities, or my decisions. I roll with my limitations but I don't let them hold me back. Don't think that because I'm forgetful I'm not smart. Don't think that because I occasionally stumble, I'll end up falling. And don't think that because I'm slower than I used to be, I'm stupid. I'm far from it -- never underestimate me. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So, intrepid readers, off I go to Nepal with my new-found strength and confidence. Sunday morning I'm off to LA, then to Katmandu via Bangkok. I simply can't believe it's here.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I won't be posting on my blog while I'm away -- too expensive. But our guide group, Alpine Ascents, will post an update on my Facebook page every day and I may chime in here and there. So please, keep an eye out. Friend me on Facebook and I'll friend you back. I return to the States on November 3.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks to everyone for your support and encouragement. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">उन्तिल लाटर </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Until later.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-8802267930413991132013-09-23T05:19:00.002-07:002013-09-23T05:19:35.360-07:00Our fundraiser was fabulous. We raised over $10,000 for Parkinson's research and summit4stemcell! Everything was just perfect, from the food to the music, flowers, and our wonderful guests. Pictures are below.<br />
<br />
Now, in 13 days, I leave for Everest. My goal during this time is to continue my training, lay low, and get my mind ready. Physically I'm there; now it's time to enforce my confidence and to confirm, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that I CAN DO THIS. <br />
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Ta Ta For Now!<br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-58486975162478555062013-09-21T06:34:00.000-07:002013-09-21T06:34:03.062-07:00Let The Festivities Begin -- With a CaveatMy fundraiser for Parkinson's is tonight. We're expecting about 50 people; not quite the number we were hoping for, but it's gala season in D.C. I'm nevertheless incredibly grateful to those who are attending this event.<br />
<br />
Last weekend the bar was raised on the critical importance of raising money for this Parkinson's research. You see, my beloved uncle -- my father's brother -- died last weekend from complications of Parkinson's. He wasn't able to benefit from the research but once we get this research to the FDA and begin clinical trials I am confident that I will be a recipient of this amazing long-term treatment for Parkinson's.<br />
<br />
You may ask, can Parkinson's be inherited? Yes. Though very little is known about the genetics
of Parkinson's, mutations in a gene known as LRRK2 have been found to greatly increase
a person's likelihood of developing the condition. I don't know if I have the mutation and I don't know yet whether I will be tested. If, however, there is a possibility we can pass this disease to our children, once again the research becomes critical.<br />
<br />
Happy Saturday!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-85932040908834055382013-09-10T06:06:00.000-07:002013-09-10T06:06:06.365-07:00Quite the weekendWords can't describe the four days I just spent with the Everest team, hiking in the Eastern Sierras. Friday was tough but it was just a warm up for Saturday. Eight hours of difficult terrain and high elevation, but we made it to Kearsarge Pass -- 11,600 feet.<br />
<br />
Now I really know I can do Everest. The niggling doubts are gone. I'm strong, mentally and physically. The going will be hard and slow but I have no doubt I'll get to Base Camp.<br />
<br />
27 days and it's off to Bangkok for a few days, then to Katmandu!<br />
<br />
Check out this video of the recent hike. Pretty cool.<br />
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http://vimeo.com/74077312<br />
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I'll have a few more posts before I leave on October 6th, and I hope to post along the trail in Nepal. Stay tuned!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-46454010461639767962013-09-04T11:18:00.004-07:002013-09-04T11:18:54.340-07:00Sorry I've been out of touch! Trying to get three kids ready for college and getting them there is a huge, time-consuing task -- one that I don't wish on anyone! Anyway...............<br />
<br />
The countdown is SO on! 32 days to go. I can't believe it. <br />
<br />
I learned I was going to Everest Base Camp in August of 2012. Over a year of training and preparation has led me to this point. I think I'm ready. I'm nervous and excited, and have decided that if anything stops me it will be the altitude. <br />
<br />
Physically I'm in the best shape ever so I don't think my body will give out. I'll be taking Diamox for the altitude. Don't ask me what it does because it's very complicated, but basically it increases your excretion of carbon dioxide -- thereby making room for more oxygen.<br />
<br />
I'm taking a final training hike this weekend with the Summit4StemCell group. We're going to the Eastern Sierras where we'll camp for three days and do some amazing hikes, peaking out at 12,00+ feet. I'll be putting Diamox to the test!<br />
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I'm starting to assemble my gear and am figuring out what I still need. I'm prepared for rain, cold, snow, sunburn, tetanus/malaria/hepatitis, and Everest Revenge. <br />
<br />
I'll post pics of the Sierras trip next week. Just wanted you to know that I'm alive and well, and that I go to Everest in only 32 days!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-26617972547463331832013-08-10T16:47:00.002-07:002013-08-10T16:47:39.642-07:00The Countdown Is SO On!!<br />57 DAYS TO GO. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-49927809941974423342013-07-29T05:24:00.000-07:002013-07-29T05:24:15.168-07:00Part Deux, C'est FiniNow that I'm recovered from Part Deux, here are some photos from the final hike. The Dragoon Mountains, behind Rick and Lindsay's house. It was very hot but it wasn't a hugely difficult hike. Lots of rocks and boulders to climb/crawl over, but hey -- after those trees on Day Deux -- boulders, schmoulders.<br />
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And yes, that's me with the red face and funny hat! <br />
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Next up is the Eastern Sierras with the Everest group in early September. Three days, camping involved. Woo hoo! THEN ..... one month later ..... it's heeeeeeeeeeeeeeere!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-7294127571400692602013-07-21T01:17:00.000-07:002013-07-21T01:17:27.200-07:00Part Deux, Day DeuxToday was the Coronado National Forest. The Webb/Ash trails go to 10,000 feet and change. About a 2.5 hour drive, and we stopped at BK for some breakfast. Rick at his finest.<br />
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Off we went with our bellies full of sausage burritos. We arrived at the Columbine trailhead, Rick's hiking choice of the day. We started out somewhere around 7,200+ feet. The nicest man runs the visitor center, only open on Saturdays and Sundays.<br />
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And we went out for our "three hour tour......a three hour tour......"<br />
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And by the way, message to the National Park Service: your signage SUCKS. 1.75 miles my ASS!<br />
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I had no idea that Arizona had such different and beautiful terrain. We hiked among fir, aspen, and pine trees, ferns, and other wet climate flora and fauna you would never expect -- like columbine flowers.<br />
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What a tough hike. Lots of fallen trees, rocks, and other obstacles that typically have been my sworn enemy. Nonetheless, all went well and without incident. <br />
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Until we lost the trail. Again. The damn thing just disappeared at about 9,500 feet or so. By this time, about 2.5 hours into the hike, the altitude was getting to be a bit. Headache, mostly. I slowed down (slower than usual) and the symptoms subsided.<br />
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Ultimately we made it to the top of Webb Peak -- 10,029 feet!<br />
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Back down safely and home by 6:00. I proved to myself that I can hike at altitude with few problems. At the end of the day I was tired and a bit sore, but satisfied and a little proud of myself. Tomorrow -- sleep in then figure it out!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-6280758439973525422013-07-19T18:07:00.002-07:002013-07-19T18:07:43.707-07:00Arizona, Part DeuxI'm in Arizona hiking with my Everest partner Rick and his wife, Lindsay. You might remember our "adventure" earlier this year, when the trail ended we were lost somewhere in the Huachuca Mountains.<br />
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The adventures continue. Today we did our "acclimatization" hike for the weekend at Montezuma Pass. We had a sense of foreboding when we parked the car at 6,000+ feet and it was cloudy with drizzle. Ah, well. Put on the ponchos and let's roll. <br />
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Do you know it rains in Arizona? A lot? Heavy, pounding rain? Do you know the clouds hang pretty low when this happens, around 7,000 feet? Yes, folks, Rick and I were hiking IN the clouds in driving rain. See photos. It went from bad to worse as the wind picked up. We were soaked and cold, and we turned around at about 7,500 feet.<br />
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On the way back we passed three Border Patrol police officers, who were hurrying up the mountain to "meet some people". When we finally got back to the parking lot there were two Border Patrol "pokey wagons", four Suburbans, and at least five more police officers. We assured them they weren't looking for us, and we headed back down to Jack In The Box for burgers, then me to DQ for a cone.<br />
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Two more days of hiking. What kind of adventure will we have next?<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-50708911713910100982013-07-15T11:10:00.001-07:002013-07-15T11:10:42.613-07:00Hiking The Trail......Appalachian Trail, that is. Yesterday my hiking buddy Don and I went hiking about 45 minutes west, not in but near the Shenandoah. I chose it because I wanted to hike the AT, as we pros call it.<br />
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It was probably the most difficult trail we've done so far. It was filled with large rocks and boulders, which we had to maneuver around very carefully. Lots of ups and downs, as well as a stream crossing. Yes, I made it this time. Me, with my cast and trekking poles! You know what they say -- Ginger
Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but backwards and in heels. <br />
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Next up: Huachuca Mountains, Arizona, with my Everest partner Rick. Hmm, wonder if it will be HOT? <br />
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A few photos: a very friendly butterfly, a "good" spot on the trail, and the sign to prove it!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-55692644476134269562013-07-10T04:53:00.001-07:002013-07-10T04:53:25.191-07:00More Press -- Let's Raise Money!The momentum is growing. Summit4StemCell is getting the word out via social and live media. There have been articles and TV appearances in San Diego, Rick is working on something in Arizona, and there have been three articles on the east coast. The latest: The Columbus Dispatch, Sunday, July 7. Check it out!<br />
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http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2013/07/07/bucket-list-climb-could-help-many.html<br />
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Last bit of interesting news: a well-known actress has tweeted me and has re-tweeted my post about the climb! Don't know if anything will come of it, but hey -- she knows my name! <br />
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You can donate at www.summit4stemcell.org. And remember -- the research involves NON-EMBRYONIC stem cells.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-68266297386217518642013-07-09T10:38:00.003-07:002013-07-09T10:38:40.974-07:00Where Next?I'm still decompressing from my Reunion, and looking ahead to the rest of the summer. If I go too far ahead I get a little crazy, so let's just address July, shall we?<br />
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Off to Arizona in about two weeks to hike with my Everest buddy Rick. We'll do the Huachuca mountains -- looking for elevation, which is the goal for the next three months.<br />
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<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="189" data-width="266" height="189" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSiL-b7snUpc7CJDEM_G-RLVQrE1J17qeomMqI6I95Y1jdkkQmyag" style="height: 189px; width: 266px;" width="266" /><br />
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Less than a week after I get back I'm off again to San Diego to do Mt. San Jacinto with our fearless Everest leader Sherrie Gould. 10,000+ feet -- my highest so far!<br />
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I can't believe it's less than three months away. The niggling doubts are there, as is just a tad of fear that I'll bonk on my way up. <br />
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More later!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-15607921002618909272013-07-07T05:55:00.000-07:002013-07-07T06:04:38.068-07:00I'm Home Again .... Read OnBottom line: my 40th high school was a lot of fun. The hard work was over and it was time to see old friends and lost classmates. What you have to understand to put this in context is that the 4th of July in my hometown is bigger than Christmas and Thanksgiving rolled into one. IT'S TRADITION.<br />
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Of course, the girls were the first stop. Mary, Patty, Tree, Bid. Later we picked up Base, Dana, Kath, and Mimi, as well as long lost but deeply loved Dareth and Michelle (who, by the way, is one of the funniest people I know). The parade rolled out -- who ARE those old gomers on the Class of '73 float, singing "Born To Be Wild"? Cool song, but geez........ and they're SITTING ON CHAIRS?? IN TIE DYE?? We waved to the 10-deep crowd as we rolled along Northwest Boulevard, some of us thinking back to when we did the same thing as cheerleaders and athletes or, in the case of me and Patty, the Miss Upper Arlington float (we were in the Court!)<br />
<br />
The next night was the reunion. We had a helluva turn out -- 200+ people, 40 years later. Thank God we wore name tags, although there were some people who, I swear, looked better than they did in high school. Deb S. G has not a single frickin' wrinkle on her face!! Lots of mingling and reminiscing. Buck and I (mostly me) had a good cry at the bar, remembering Dave and wishing he was there with us.<br />
<br />
I sat with Dick and Nancy, my cousin and his wife, where I was re-introduced to Louise. My great-aunt's '69 T-Bird, soon to reside in my garage. <br />
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I had the amazing opportunity to go inside the house where I grew up. As I was taking pictures the current owners invited me in when I told them my parents built the house in @ 1965. If you ever get the chance, do it. Once is enough but the memories flood you as you walk around, remembering where you gathered with your friends.<br />
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The "house band" at the reunion, a quick assemblage of old friends. Great set!<br />
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Self-portrait with Michelle and Mimi lurking in the background.<br />
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So the weekend is over. So many mixed feelings. We're past mid-life, past raising kids to cuddling grandkids. Will I go to the next one? Who knows what five years will bring.<br />
<br />
The thought that remains is an old Girl Scout song: "Make new friends but keep the old; some are silver, the others gold." Good seein' ya, gold friends.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-64201132854980545592013-07-01T18:14:00.002-07:002013-07-01T18:14:58.089-07:00Read All About It In AARP!AARP just posted a story about our Parkinson's Everest group! A truly lovely picture of yours truly. Check it out. They omitted a reference to www.summit4stemcell.com, the fundraising website for the climb. Please chip in whatever you can. It all goes to some amazing Parkinson's research!<br />
<br />
http://blog.aarp.org/2013/07/01/hiker-with-parkinsons-to-climb-everest-with-other-patients/ <br />
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Evvie Heilbrunn: Climbing for a Cause </a></h1>
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<a href="http://blog.aarp.org/author/blwalls/" rel="author" title="Posts by Barbranda Lumpkins Walls">Barbranda Lumpkins Walls</a>
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Evvie Heilbrunn is no shrinking violet. Four days a week the two-time breast cancer survivor <a href="http://www.aarp.org/travel/trips/info-04-2010/hiking-with-the-in-crowd.html?intcmp=AE-BLIL-DOTORG" target="_blank" title="For a truly unique hike, take a walk with the locals">hikes</a>
at least two hours or works out on a treadmill or elliptical machine.
She sweats it out with a personal trainer another two days. And did I
mention that she has <a href="http://blog.aarp.org/2013/04/17/parkinsons-disease-awareness-michael-j-fox-research-foundation/?intcmp=AE-BLIL-BL" target="_blank" title="What is Parkinson’s Disease (infographic)?">Parkinson’s Disease</a> and will climb Mount Everest this fall?<br />
<a href="http://blog.aarp.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Evvie-hiking.jpeg"><img alt="Evvie Heilbrunn hiking" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-48410" height="225" src="http://blog.aarp.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Evvie-hiking-300x225.jpeg" title="Evvie Heilbrunn hiking" width="300" /></a>Heilbrunn, 57, of Great Falls, Va., will travel to Nepal in October with other <a href="http://blog.aarp.org/2013/03/28/michael-j-fox-and-his-foundation-spark-a-revolution-in-parkinsons-research/?intcmp=AE-BLIL-BL" target="_blank" title="Michael J. Fox and His Foundation Spark a Revolution in Parkinson’s Research">Parkinson’s patients</a> from the Scripps Clinic and Research Institute in La Jolla, Calif. The group of eight will head to <a href="http://blog.aarp.org/2013/05/29/oldest-everest-climbers-anniversar/?intcmp=AE-BLIL-BL" target="_blank" title="Climb Every Mountain? Not This Time">Everest’s</a>
base camp at 17,600 feet and then climb to a peak called Kala Pattar.
They aim to raise money for Summit 4 Stem Cell, a nonprofit that
supports non-embryonic stem cell research, which could help in treating
Parkinson’s, a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. So
far, there is no cure for it.<br />
Besides raising money for a great cause, why would the wife and
mother of four want to do something that would challenge even the
healthiest person? “I want to push beyond my limitations,” says
Heilbrunn, a former emergency room nurse turned patent trial lawyer who
was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 53, nine years after her first
cancer diagnosis. “Taking a risk used to scare me.”<br />
<a href="http://www.aarp.org/personal-growth/transitions/info-11-2010/hiking_the_appalachian_trail_after_50.html?intcmp=AE-BLIL-DOTORG" target="_blank" title="Reality Check: Hiking the Appalachian Trail After 50"><strong>Reality Check: Hiking the Appalachian Trail After 50</strong></a><br />
Scaling the legendary mountain has long been on Heilbrunn’s <a href="http://blog.aarp.org/2013/05/22/john-goddards-ultimate-bucket-list-life-achievement-ambitious-goals/?intcmp=AE-BLIL-BL" target="_blank" title="John Goddard: The Ultimate Bucket List">bucket list</a>,
along with being a spectator at a Tour de France, a Super Bowl and Game
7 of a World Series. “I’m a big sports freak,” she says.<br />
The Everest feat would have been unfathomable a year and a half ago, when <a href="http://blog.aarp.org/2013/04/04/sequester-fallout-where-will-medicare-patients-get-chemo/?intcmp=AE-BLIL-BL" target="_blank" title="Sequester Fallout: Where Will Medicare Patients Get Chemotherapy?">chemotherapy</a>
during her second cancer battle cut her weight to just 90 pounds. She
has rebounded, but Parkinson’s presents its own challenges. Though
medication helps to control tremors, she still suffers short-term memory
loss.<br />
Despite all that — and a recent broken wrist — Heilbrunn remains
upbeat and focused as she continues training for her big trip. “I want
to prove to myself that I can do it.”<br />
You can follow Heilbrunn’s exploits on her <a href="http://climbforparkinsons.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" title="http://climbforparkinsons.blogspot.com/">blog</a>.<br />
<em>Photo: Rick Whipple</em><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-22437659893834487552013-06-26T15:29:00.000-07:002013-06-26T15:29:12.398-07:00Life Is A CircleMy 40th high school reunion is next week. I'm going of course, having dieted, used every "youthening" face cream I could find, and looking for the most slimmimg Spanx.<br />
<br />
So yeah, 40 years. Wow. I've been in charge of the invitations and the RSVPs so I know what everyone's been doing. Many are retired or semi-retired. Many have grandchildren -- in fact, I heard from a friend today who has NINE grandkids! The "those who have passed" list is longer; this year it includes my dear cousin, Dave. So many women are breast cancer survivors, and some people are widows or widowers. A few are on their third (and beyond) marriages, and others have young kids. (Poor souls!)<br />
<br />
I remember a song by Harry Chapin called "All My Life's A Circle". Catchy melody, and I've never forgotten it. It's never been more true than now.<br />
<br />
All my life's a circle;<br />
Sunrise and sundown;<br />
Moon rolls thru the nighttime;<br />
Till the daybreak comes around.
<br />
All my life's a circle;<br />
But I can't tell you why;<br />
Season's spinning round again;<br />
The years keep rollin' by.
<br />
It seems like I've been here before;<br />
I can't remember when;<br />
But I have this funny feeling;<br />
That we'll all be together again.
<br />
No straight lines make up my life;<br />
And all my roads have bends;<br />
There's no clear-cut beginnings;<br />
And so far no dead-ends.<br />
<br />
I found you a thousand times;<br />
I guess you done the same;<br />
But then we lose each other;<br />
It's like a children's game;
<br />
As I find you here again;<br />
A thought runs through my mind;<br />
Our love is like a circle;<br />
Let's go 'round one more time.<br />
<br />
Rock on, Class of '73! <br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-88552964315280694672013-06-20T13:02:00.001-07:002013-06-20T13:02:59.756-07:00My Little Black CloudI've mentioned it a few times. It follows me wherever I go. Stuff just happens to me -- I don't know why, but I don't know anyone else who has this many thing go wrong.<br />
<br />
I broke my wrist yesterday. In physical therapy! I kid you not. Tripped over my shoelaces and broke my fall with my left (dominant, of course) hand. I finished up the session and drove right to the ER. After you have enough things happen to you, you just kind of know.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I'll have a cast for 6 weeks with possible surgery. But there is no way in HELL this is going to sideline Everest. no freaking way. So stay tuned, because the fun never stops!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-6967865603990823762013-06-14T16:15:00.000-07:002013-06-14T16:15:02.452-07:00Well Heellloooooo, Gawgeous! (That Would Be Me)I guess I've "made it". This article (written by a really funny veteran reporter and sports freak like me, Tom Jackman) was published today in the online version of The Washington Post. It may soon be in print on a newsstand near you!<br />
<br />
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http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/local/wp/2013/06/14/evvie-heilbrunn-of-great-falls-battles-her-newest-obstacle-mount-everest/<br />
<br />
Now, in this article Mr. Jackman makes several references to my use
of "adult language". I thought there was this
on-the-record/off-the-record thing? I'm such a rookie at this, you
savvy reporter, you! Ah, well. I really do talk that way, so what the
hell? <br />
<br />
The word is really getting out there about the
amazing Parkinson's research that is behind our Everest trek. We're
really thrilled, but more importantly (of course): I'm (kind of)
famous! They like me, they really like me!<br />
<br />
So as I get ready to attend my 40th high school reunion -- Upper Arlington High School Class of '73, Go Bears -- here's this old lady telling her story in the Washington Post. How the hell did that happen!? I mean seriously! I might be older and grayer, but at least I'll have a story to tell..................Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-52669669222947429732013-06-05T19:51:00.000-07:002013-06-05T19:51:00.142-07:00The Waskawy Miwacle Of The Wacky MachineHave you guys ever heard of a CPAP machine? It's used for people with sleep apnea, which I have thanks to Parkinson's. Simply put, I stop breathing during the night. About 25 times a night. It's not very good for you. In fact, it can shorten your life (just add it to the list!). I snore, too. Loudly.*<br />
<br />
I wore the thing for a while, but after I started chemo in late 2011 I put it on the shelf. As I said in my last blog, I've been feeling pretty rotten lately. Very tired and lethargic, with some progression of my PD symptoms.<br />
<br />
So I decided to try the CPAP again. It has a full-face mask that makes me look like I'm in surgery; the mask is attached to a long hose that goes to the CPAP. I have to lie on my back -- no side sleeping. You get used to it. <br />
<br />
After just a week or so I feel so much better. I have more energy, I'm not so tired, my mind is sharper. <u>Huge</u> benefits with a small trade off. The downside is that I can't take it everywhere -- electricity is a must. What, no CPAP at Everest? My fellow trekkers are in for a rude surprise. <br />
<br />
<br />
*A side note. When I did the Avon walk recently we slept in tents the first night. My sweet friend Heather occasionally tapped me and said softly, "Ev, you're snoring, sweetie. Roll over." And I did. My campground mates weren't as sweet. Sometime in the middle of the night someone came and hit me on the head through the tent! Just smacked me! I guess I was pretty loud. . . . .<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-90892060163962929032013-05-28T04:25:00.003-07:002013-05-28T04:25:49.727-07:00Sometimes Progress SucksBy now you all know that Parkinson's is a progressive disease. There is no cure, but medications can slow down the progress. I was diagnosed four years ago and have held it at bay for quite a while.<br />
<br />
But it progresses, and it has. Not to a huge extent, but enough to be aggravating. Joint and muscle pain has gotten much worse. The range of motion in my neck has become very limited. The pain is there every day. It's hard to live with pain and it can be exhausting, not to mention frightening. The rest of my life? Pain? That's a hard concept to get your mind around.<br />
<br />
Exercise helps a bit, as does stretching. I have a TENS unit that I use every day on the worst spots, and I use a foam roller for my back and legs. But sometimes I have to go with the big guns and take some heavy pain medication. I don't like that much, but sometimes nothing else will help.<br />
<br />
That having been said, F it. I'm going to Everest and I'm going to get to Base Camp. I've decided to take a bunch of those hand warmer things you use when skiing; cold makes the pain worse and cold is what Everest is all about. Feet, hands, whatever needs warming. I'm re-thinking my gear, particularly clothes. I'll probably get some warmer clothing, heavier socks. But you know, why throw the baby out with the bath water?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-55139534191131549502013-05-21T12:33:00.002-07:002013-05-21T12:33:43.388-07:00Things Are CopaceticBy now you all know that I can't go on a hike without getting injured. Last Saturday my friend Don and I were headed off to Catlett Mountain in the Shenandoah National Park for a 10 mile "strenuous" hike.<br />
<br />
I should have known. It was a chilly, rainy days and my knees hurt. I decided I would tough it through, so we set off. The first obstacle was a stream we had to cross by stepping on boulders. Success! On we went, and lo and behold -- another stream to ford! The boulders were bigger and farther apart and were a lot slippery than the first stream.<br />
<br />
But off I went, brave warrior that I am. Well, that third step is a bitch. Down I went into the lovely cold water. My leg hurt but that was about it. I waded through the water to the banks and checked out my leg. Shit. (not for the squeamish)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3JJwN7oBGDLDGyK0AL_t_m_FEEQLFwBwOWbyR3sXfznN1LcNfXQyitzhChTsgxQPC16g9vEhF2P1qXclis7_U2YFQBMBtm_nXSnZu8X3wCRWWG8YlVngPlMSG4JcdKSBIy5pYdyb/s1600/leg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3JJwN7oBGDLDGyK0AL_t_m_FEEQLFwBwOWbyR3sXfznN1LcNfXQyitzhChTsgxQPC16g9vEhF2P1qXclis7_U2YFQBMBtm_nXSnZu8X3wCRWWG8YlVngPlMSG4JcdKSBIy5pYdyb/s320/leg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So off I go to the ER. I should have a memorial wing. They didn't stitch it because I fell in fresh water. Germs, and all that. i should have some lovely scars, but what's a few more? I'm a warrior! Onward I go!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-54800578500172919662013-05-06T13:05:00.000-07:002013-05-06T13:05:17.612-07:00The Avon WalkWhat a weekend. 39 miles in two days -- 26 the first day, and 13 the second. I am way, way too old for this. But you know what? I did it, with my friend Heather pushing me all along the way. <br />
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We started and ended at the Washington Monument. As we walked through D.C. we went by the Jefferson Monument, the Martin Luther King Memorial, and the White House. We wandered into Chevy Chase, Maryland, where we spent the night in a pink tent (and I kept the entire camp awake with my snoring. Seriously. Someone hit me on the head several times during the middle of the night - from OUTSIDE the tent!).<br />
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The next day we wound our way past the Naval Observatory (I waved hi to Joe), the National Cathedral, Embassy Row, and downtown D.C. We arrived at the Washington Monument to find a huge, arched "Finish Line" across which we proudly danced -- yes, danced (I had had a little pain medication for my aching body). The final ceremony was beyond touching. The sea of pink t-shirts made it very real that breast cancer is an epidemic that MUST be stopped.<br />
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What a weekend.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2224918679365896307.post-43170548907987875892013-05-03T18:30:00.002-07:002013-05-03T18:30:57.006-07:00My homemade video!I just realized I haven't shared my masterpiece with you! (And if I have, please don't tell me. I'm happy in my oblivion.)<br />
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I'm SO lame at this stuff, but I wanted to document our kick off training weekend in a way that is special to me. So here it is! Watch out, though -- I fully intend to do more of them!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/L1SXjiYE238?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08629155537627360657noreply@blogger.com0