ERIN is 39 years old and a marketing director working in an established Assisted Living community. But, her early years were far and away different from the life she now enjoys! Born to two brilliant, yet troubled parents who had 5 children 13 years before Erin's unexpected arrival, Erin wasn't privy to a Cinderella-like life. Erin's father would often disappear, leaving her mother alone to manage all five kids.! Her siblings were often left to fend for themselves; in essence, they were responsible for raising one another. Her sisters considered Erin's birth a blessing, having a beautiful baby girl to love unconditionally and raise as their own.
When Erin turned 16 her family had moved a total of 13 times. It was during her 16th year that Erin dropped out of school. She had an ever-present feeling that she needed to stay home to take care of whatever situation might need her attention! She felt a need to "fix" everything. Little did she know! At 17, when her father died, Erin had already begun her own journey using drugs and alcohol to plug the ever-present leaks that continued to flood her life. At 21 Erin had her own blessing and welcomed her daughter, Alexandra, into her life. At 23 Erin's mother died from cancer, and her sister, Darcy, bipolar went into a full-blown manic phase. Erin spent more than 80% of her time caring for her and after 4-months, Darcy came out of her "fog," regaling Erin with stories of new hopes and dreams.
Several months later Erin arrived at Darcy's apartment living room where she found her beautiful sister lying in a pool of blood. She had been strangled and stabbed to death! 6 months after Darcy's death, Erin lost her other sister, Wendy, to stomach cancer. Leaving Alexandra in the safe care of her husband, Erin moved in to care for Wendy until her death. Erin has climbed many mountains in her life and despite this Kilimanjaro still seems daunting.
With her love and passion for the outdoors, the community of great women and the support of friends and family, the training for this climb includes trying to convince her daughter Alex to train with her and reminding herself that "yes she can!"
What life lessons have I taken from all this?
I recently left my job with the Assisted Living Community because I was continually experiencing death every day. I've chosen to really embrace life and living now, so this work no longer fits! I've not learned nor had the time to take care of myself...not really. I've created a sense of self that is connected only to what I do for others. Moving forward, I know what I want. I'm excited about and hungry to climb Africa's most sacred mountain as well as feeling doubt-ridden and anxious. Why? With everything I've accomplished in my life, I've done it with the help of so many friends and family and for the first time in my live I feel ready to count on myself.
I long to be part of a team, a community. I have committed to doing this climb and I'm going to put myself as top priority.The one thing I know is that I'll embrace the children I meet as my own; that every step I take, my family! will take with me even when they're back home in the States. During these next 7 months of training, I will do what I do best: welcome the hunger and! excitement and accept the doubt and fears that come in. And then I'll let them go and move forward. - Erin
GENEVIEVE (call her, Gen, s'il vous plait!) was born in Rimouski, Quebec, Canada and raised mostly around the St-Jean-sur-Richelieu area. Since she can remember she has always thought of herself a child of the universe. In her wonderfully humorous way, Gen confirms that if her passion (addiction, maybe?) for traveling the world and people were ever to be categorized as a serious disease, she would, without question, nurture it for the rest of her life! Besides being a rolling stone, she admits to having a lifelong love affair with change, which at its core, brings fun and excitement into her life, not to mention that of so many others! Ask her to do anything routine and she'll have none of it. Non! Nada! Nothing!
With a diploma in hotel management, Gen took to the hospitality industry like a fish to water, or camels to desert! She's not quite sure whether she chose the industry or the industry chose her, but what she knows for sure is that working in many different places and positions around the world is in her genes and part of her destiny. Gen found her true love when she worked as a camel tour guide in Australia, a position that combined her love for people and animals. {Sidebar: Who knew that Australia, a desert climate that perfectly suits these beautiful animals, hosts the largest population of wild passion. She applied to a program to become a Horseback Riding Tour Guide, one that only accepts 10 applicants per year. In September 2010, Gen will add the position of "student" to her already busy work schedule as she joins 9 other members of the class of 2013 in a program that promises to take her back into the world of adventure.
It's not lost on Gen how privileged she is for her opportunities. For some time she has given much thought to what she can do to make a difference for people around the world in real need. In early 2010 an answer, a coincidence as she calls it, came to Gen in the form of an invitation to become part of the Kilimanjaro project. She accepted without hesitation. She moved to Mont-Tremblant a couple of years ago with a yearning to start over and learn something new. The something new for her was to start snowboarding. Taking a position as a server/bartender at the resort wasn't the starting over part as much as a kick start to pursue her shape, something that is a daily challenge for me. And, this is the first time I've been involved in raising money for a social cause. What I do know is that I will move with this in the same way we'll be climbing Kili - by putting one foot in front of the other until we reach the summit. And, we will have reached our fundraising goals way before that time comes!
I'm so lucky to have been born in Canada, a healthy person and to a loving family. So, I know that seeing the children for the first time will be shocking for me. I want to do whatever I can to help these kids because they deserve it! This is the complete package that I've been dreaming about, a once in a lifetime experience that will change my views of the world, myself, and be unforgettable and lifechanging - two things I most cherish in life!
What life lessons have I taken from all this?
Change comes easily to me. Commitment, on the other hand, is something I continually learn about. All my adventures in the past have allowed me time and space to discover what I want to do with my life, with work, new adventures, and taking charge for my part in helping make the world a better place. Especially for children! I am working on their behalf because I know that they need our energies, abilities and voices. By taking part in this Kilimanjaro project, I am putting myself in shoes I've never tried on before!
This expedition will be my biggest challenge ever and will stretch me beyond my comfort zone - physically, mentally and emotionally! Helping these children is what this trip is all about for me. I don't know what to expect, I have lots of insecurities that include: climbing with a group of women, most of whom I don't know. We'll be depending upon one another, which I don't think will be all that easy. I also feel more than a little nervous about my getting into physical shape. - Gen
Barbara Falco
BARBARA was born in a small coal mining town at the foot of the Pocono Mountains in Northeastern Pennsylvania as the youngest of 5 children in a family full of love. She is the real deal—a coal miner's daughter—and her father was one of the last remaining deep coal miners in that part of Pennsylvania. For her first 8 years, Barbara attended a small private Catholic school before convincing her parents that a public high school was the best route for her. By the time she was 13, she had already memorized Catholic mass, and made her father a promise that if she were allowed to transfer to a public high school she would be the top student in her school. Graduating Valedictorian of her high school graduating class, Barbara kept her part of the bargain. She went on to attend Pennsylvania State University, a school that proudly lives up to its reputation, "Happy Valley." Those that know her could attest that Barbara had found her academic home! Yet, two years into a major in Computer Science was enough to convince her that writing code for the rest of her life would not make her a "happy" girl. So Barbara switched from Computer to General Science, hence beginning a long career that would lead her down many paths, including the ultimate search for meaning and purpose.
After graduating college Barbara went to work in a small laboratory. Again, she felt an internal tug calling out for something more. Thus began her search for a better fit. One night after work in a bar sharing margaritas with two friendly gentlemen, Barbara openly shared, “I need to find a new job!” Their answer, of course, “We have the perfect position for you!” Right! Leaving them with her contact information, they actually followed through on their promise! Thus began her executive career in the pharmaceutical industry. Barbara had literally found her “happy” place, which she also happened to be incredibly good at – Quality Assurance on the operations side of the business. After working her way up and out of a number of companies she landed at a small start-up, Kos Pharmaceuticals, and adeptly used her skills and abilities to help grow and build Kos into a very successful brand. 11 years later Kos sold to Abbott Laboratories.
During her climb up the professional ladder, Barbara met, fell in love with, and married her best friend, Michael. They recently celebrated 18 years together that continues to be filled with joy, contentment, and lots of laughs.
In 2009 she cashed out and literally/figuratively hit the hiking trails in search for what the next chapters of her life will reveal.
What life lessons have I taken from all this?
I was raised a good Catholic girl, but throughout my years in the Pharma industry I was spiritually drawn to another: to learn about Buddhism. In 2006 I signed up for a course in Enlightenment at a university campus near my home that was taught by the esteemed Dalai Llama himself. Though I don't yet feel completely enlightened, I continue a daily practice with this objective in mind. The one struggle that continually tugged at me was over my collection of material things. When a yogi friend said, "Barb, you can keep all your Guccis, just don't get attached to them," I came to understand that this was definitely something I could live with!
Having created a life of privilege, I've also come to understand my deep desire to help others, especially children. Having spent my life working in an integral industry that manufactures the anti-retroviral medications for those with HIV/AIDS, I'm in a unique position to connect with companies that can help our team deliver to these African children the one thing that can help them grow up and live happy, healthy lives!
Throughout my professional career I've provided helping hands to those employees and patients facing a myriad of challenges. With the help of my team, we created solutions that they continue to enjoy today. That's exactly what we will do during this Mount Kilimanjaro project/ expedition. Our survival and success will rest in our intertwined and helping hands. I believe that the world can be a better place one person at a time, one simple act of kindness at a time. This we can do for these children! - Barbara
ANGELA was born in Ontario and raised in Montreal, Quebec, Canada by a single mother and a large extended family. Through her maternal Grandmother Angela is of Native-Canadian descent, being of the Cree nation. When she was 15, her interest for anything associated with excitement and personal growth literally sped to the next level when she took her inaugural Harley ride to Mount Washington, insisting that she drive rather than sit passively in the passenger seat. What was indicative then as it is today are Angela's traits to take charge and fearlessly and optimistically jump into life's possibilities. At 18, she packed her belongings and left her native Canada, becoming the only member of her family - an honour she still holds today - to travel the world in search of adventure, enrichment, professional & personal success.
Angela's globetrotting took her from: North to South America; to the far shores of The Cape of Good Hope; to the sun-kissed Mediterranean; to the pristine islands of Tahiti. She not only gained a sense of the world's incredible diversity, but also began to view the world, her world, through new exciting, and adventurous eyes. Angela also gained a deeper understanding of being very blessed in a challenging world. Through all the years of travel and miles logged, Angela's resume of professional expertise and personal connections are as deep and wide as the places visited and experiences encountered. Her colleagues and friends use similar words to describe her: charismatic, bright, balanced, intuitive, skilled beyond measure, organized, a strategist who is a great decision maker and problem solver, just to name a few. So when this bright, innovative, creative and passionate woman hit the southern shores, she made California her new home. For the past decade she has worked in the entertainment business putting her many talented traits to work and winning many friends and fans along the way.
The one thing Angela treasures over all her own life experiences is the desire to embrace a greater purpose, one that calls those who can, to take action and make a difference for those less fortunate than oneself. Throughout her charitable experiences, this adventure, with TEAM DREAM IT/DO IT!, reminds her of being 15 all over again, taking the driver's seat once again, not sitting as a passive passenger!
Angela describes herself as a free spirit that will never be tamed, but one that is always willing and happy to dig in her heels to join a noble cause, whether they are her stilettos or hiking boots. And through the influence of her aboriginal heritage she feels a strong Spiritual connection to Mother Earth and her peoples.
"Especially," notes Angela, "when the project is about serving the health & well-being of innocent and deserving children around the world. The thought of doing a climb such as this, in the company of such inspirational women is both an honour and a great privilege. My commitment to this project, "Climb Up so Kids can Grow Up" fills my heart with incredible determination and my Soul with boundless joy. I'll see you at base camp girls!
BETTINA is younger sister to the expedition co-leader, Sunniva, and has only vicariously experienced her big sister's world-wide adventures. Bettina decided it was time she join in the fun so that the two of them, when regaling stories at family gatherings, could do so in stereophonic detail! Bettina, known as "TT" or "Tee" to those closest to her, is mother to a teenage son who knows first hand how seriously his mum takes her responsibilities in raising him to be the healthy, driven, empathetic young man he continues to become. For 16 years, Kjell's mother (a popular Nordic name pronounced "Shell") has steadfastly held the position as CEO to her very active family. As a highly social person, Bettina works as an independent Event Planner/Promoter. In years past she also worked a few part-time jobs so that she was available to take Kjell to/from school, all his extracurricular acitivities, including football practice, and the Catalina Island (off the Southern California coast) ferry boat every other week for his joint visits with his dad. Recently and in her spare time (!) she's discovered a new love - culinary exploration. She gets great joy from cooking for her boys, husband, Del, and Kjell. Her reply when asked to describe her vision of heaven, "The combination of a good hike and a gourmet picnic!" Whether it's her Norwegian/ Canadian upbringing, or her highly energetic personality, Bettina, like Sunniva, loves anything to do with outdoor activities. Within reason, of course! Which might also explain the "crevasse" in the timeline noting Bettina's undergraduate years to earn her B.A. In 1984, majoring in Psychology and with only one course remaining in her 4-year curriculum, Bettina approached her own proverbial fork in the road, given the choice to either: Take her final in the History of Psychology class; or, because it had snowed the night before, go skiing. She felt the choice was clear - at least at the time!
It was another 24 years before Bettina, a more experienced woman and student, would grace the hallowed halls of academia to proudly complete her degree, this time at the University of California at Riverside. That experience reinvigorated Bettina's love for researching and gathering information for all things new and important. It opened her eyes to what she could do, rather than what she couldn't. For all the years in the past with an incomplete degree, she was unable to apply to jobs she most wanted. Today, that is all different and Bettina views life with new eyes and new opportunities around every corner!
What life lessons have I taken from all this?
People are like oxygen, giving me energy and tremendous joy for living. Especially children. As a mother, I know first hand that children need our help beyond just bringing them into the world. We all need to do our part in the community to facilitate ways they can grow up to be healthy, happy, and educated. I live such a blessed life, work on many different projects, most on behalf of children. This particular adventure brings me joy in that it integrates ways for me to help children, challenge myself, and be with my dear sister on an adventure for the first time. Until now, I've only vicariously enjoyed expeditions with her. Add the fact that I'm joining this great team of women who are putting such a great plan into action, well it doesn't get any better than this! I love this project because it brings me physically close to this cause and to the actual children we will be helping. I will cherish the days we spend with them before climbing Kili. It also motivates me to become a more vital model for health and fitness. I feel I'm starting out a seedling, but when I return I will be a stronger women who takes better care of herself because I took part in a great project to take care of others!
Linda Labelle
LINDA, better known as Lili, was raised in Quebec, Canada in a family and home filled with joy. The Labelles welcomed everyone into their fold to enjoy sports, home-cooked meals, community, and so much more. In an environment filled with an endless stream of fun-filled activities and laughter, along with her father's passion for sports, it's not surprising that Lili followed his lead into the world of water & cross-country skiing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, kayaking, rollerblading, and softball, the sport in which she will never forget her favorite coach - her daddy!
Metaphorically, if Lili's family is described as a "body," then Daddy would aptly serve as its heart and soul. Living like there was no tomorrow, giving 100% to everything he did, she remembers him always in motion, rarely idle. Daddy's fate was cast early with part credit to his personality and the rest explained by growing up in an alcoholic family with 7 brothers and sisters. This is where Daddy learned at a very early age that he was expected to work hard, take care of his siblings, and make sure to always have food on the table. Lili's parents, Daddy in particular, taught their children that helping others, whether giving money, food or whatever was needed, was most important. Learning to connect with others in this way was something Lili took to heart, and credits with helping her develop her own strong sense of self. Friends describe her as dynamic, funny, highly social and one who, like her Daddy, loves and lives life and sports to the fullest. Ask about her weaknesses or vulnerabilities, she'll answer with a wink and a smile, "Another time. Maybe!" With such an outgoing personality, one might ponder the oblique nature of her response. But, you'd only have to climb her father's side of the family tree, at least starting in 1950, to understand how this family's world would change over the next 46 years. In 1996 Lili, her mother and siblings would sadly, but with more clarity, put the pieces of an ongoing puzzle together to view the family tree from a branch much more fractured than one she'd known. It was Daddy's grandfather who would put into play a most horrific downward spiraling of events, beginning with his own suicide at the age of 63. In 1980, Lili's uncle Alvin, her father's 27-year-old brother, killed himself; three months later his 42-year-old brother, Bobby, followed suit; and 16 years after Bobby's death, her 46-year-old uncle Daniel did the same. Saving the world around him, yet unable to save his brothers, Raymond ("Daddy") killed himself in 1996. He was only 61 years old.
What life lessons have I taken from all this?
Despite the sad ending, Daddy left us with great discipline of how to live, which is quite a beautiful thing to inherit! Today he remains my role model, my forever coach. Also, and for me, doing social good isn't about the I've come to realize that manic depression runs in my family; it's really all about the communal effort in family. It's nothing to freak out about, just something to helping one another and humanity at large. My learn about and understand how and it affects us, things parents gave me this "gift." It's in my blood. like that. I love my life, my family, my friends, my work. Everything about what I do brings me great personal I know already that my life will be very different when I return from Africa. I already feel addicted satisfaction. for more, to do this over and over again. And, Helping children with AIDS live happy and healthy lives we're only just beginning. is critical. Because we can, we must do something about it. I find great joy and feel very much at home in being Ask me specifics when I return. Well, two months afterwards! And, with a wink and a smile, she adds, part of this project. That's my daddy in me! What I'm less "I love you, Daddy. You will be with me every step familiar with is combining my love for sports with doing good; so, to me, the Kili expedition is as exciting as it is of the way!" -Lili frightening and emotional, all rolled into one!
Chantal Lefebvre
CHANTAL was born in Aylmer, Canada before her parents, both working toward their Ph.D.s, moved their young and growing family to Montreal. She recalls a most happy childhood, living in a college setting where both parents worked as professors, and she, her brother and sister enjoyed all things associated with such a lifestyle. But living in one place for long didn't seem to suit this family. After only 2 years in Montreal, her parents packed them up and moved to the Laurentide, Quebec. It was a good thing that Chantal loved to travel, because it was very rainy in Quebec and her parents packed them up every summer vacation to follow the sun! They would travel to places like Cape Cod, Long Island, and anywhere there was a beach! When she was 6 years old the family traveled throughout Europe. From that point on she would enjoy summers either in France with her family or on a beach somewhere in the United States. Her teenage years were memorable, with their home filled with friends, laughter and great times.
Being born diabetic didn't really interfere with anything Chantal did as a child as it doesn't now in her adult years. Yet, Chantal's most difficult memory associated with her condition is that of the birth of her daughter, one that integrates both near-tragedy and miracle. Married at the time and living in London where the culture differed At 2am, still wide awake with anticipation in meeting her baby, a nurse asked if she wanted to listen to Isabella's heartbeat, an often used strategy to help mother's sleep. It took only 30 minutes for Chantal to finally doze off. Moments later, when the nurse returned to check their vitals, total panic and chaos ensued. Isabella had flat lined! Chantal had to quickly sign papers (not to sue!) and was immediately taken into emergency surgery. When she awoke, she felt nauseated, observed blood everywhere, and asked to see her daughter. "Your daughter's in emergency surgery right now!" Another shot of morphine and when Chantal awoke again, she was wheeled into the neonatal unit where she saw her precious baby in a plastic dome with tubes connected to and covering her entire body. The doctor told Chantal that her insulin had invaded Isabella's system, causing her baby to go into a diabetic coma. She didn't breathe for an entire 2.5 minutes, and the doctors didn't know if Isabeela would live through the day. And, if she did, would she have suffered cerebral damage?! From her life back in Canada, Chantal's pregnancy brought challenges and complications, one being the tendency that diabetics have during pregnancy to overproduce amniotic fluid. Because of this she was scheduled to deliver Isabella via Caesarian section. She arrived at the hospital at 7pm on August 10, 2005 with her surgery/delivery scheduled the next morning.
What life lessons have I taken from all this? The moment the doctor informed me that my diabetes nearly killed my own daughter was the most painful of my life; a "moment in time" that continues to haunt me to this day! Looking at her beautiful photo you know that she obviously pulled through, and is today a healthy, happy, brilliant little girl! But on that day and for the following two weeks that she was hospital-bound, her life was touch and go. Our life together has been nothing short of a miracle. My guilt has lessened over the years, but every day I think of that nurse who by incredible chance offered me the blessing of listening to Isabella's heart beat so that I might fall asleep. Photos of her birth and one year anniversary still adorn the wall of Bedford Hospital where all those wonderful professionals saved her. They serve to provide parents in a similar situation hope, faith and belief for a positive outcome! - Chantal
I'm excited to be involved in a project of this magnitude for other children who are walking that balance beam between life and death. To raise funds and deliver resources they so desperately need while also training to accomplish a lifelong dream, some- thing that until now I felt was beyond my reach, is really exciting. I have the need and desire to help these children because of the help Isabella and I were unconditionally given by so many when we so desperately needed it! We got that oft-spoken about second chance, and I want these children and their families to have the same.
I know from personal experience that without vulnerability inside of us we could never know our strengths. It is what reminds us how to be strong!
Rocio Machorro
ROCIO is a special member of TEAM DREAM IT/DO IT! As co-owner of Centre Yoga Plus in Old Montreal Quebec Canada, she is providing her extensive expertise to helping the women stay nimble, flexible (so many definitions within the context of this project!) and joyful throughout a year that will test their focus and energy. Not only is this team of women raising awareness and funds for the project - Climb Up so Kids can Grow Up! - they must practice creative ways to balance their lives at work, home and during their training sessions for Mount Kilimanjaro! This is where Rocio is golden!
Rocio was born in Northwest, Mexico, an island near Mazatlan Sinaloa. She and her family spent the first ten years of her life between a home in the mountains and another in the desert-like countryside. If you know anything about the history of this region of Mexico (a culture of music and dance), it is no surprise that Rocio chose the path of dance. As a university student she studied Social Communications, specializing in journalism. Though she passionately loved her studies, the thought of spending her days reading, listening and writing the news didn't have nearly the appeal for Rocio as moving joyfully through space as a contemporary dancer. For 8 years she was a member of a dance company within her government province. At the same time she taught French as a second language at the University of Sinaloa. Never one to let the grass grow beneath her feet - unless, of course, she's enjoying or conducting a yoga practice - for 11 years Rocio became totally engaged in the practice of Kung Fu and martial arts (self-defense with and without the use of sharp weapons).
It was around this time that she made a fateful journey to Montreal to improve her French language teaching skills. And, she never looked back! For the years that followed, she worked at a New Age bookstore while also immersing herself in seven years of the practice and exploration of Tai chi, Qi gong, soft gymnastics, body stretching, Shiatsu, kinesiology, and yoga. Rocio completed her teacher training in Ashtanga and Krtya, and has since been teaching Pilates and Yoga full-time at her studio.
Endowed with an earthen spirit that draws from Amerindian wisdom, Rocio is profoundly grounded. "I love life and nature. I'm blessed with two daughters, a grandson, a cat, a bike, some good friends, an old house in St-Henri, a business I co-own, the Centre Yoga Plus."
What more can one ask for in life!
Christine Roussin
CHRISTINE, born in Montreal, was raised in Joliette, Quebec, Canada with three sisters and a brother. She describes her family many different ways, all with a common theme - they are best friends, function as a team, and always have one another's back no matter what!
Christine attended school in Montreal to study respiratory therapy. When she graduated, Christine, her brother and a sister moved to Mont-Tremblant where she took a job in a hospital. That was 7 years ago.
Christine has created a great life for herself and her beautiful nearly 3-year-old daughter, Gaëlle (pronounced, "guy-elle"). And, she'll tell you that the most important thing in life is that her little girl is healthy and happy. Something Christine knows a thing or two about beyond her professional training.
To know Christine is to learn about her through her father, a man who has literally embraced his Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for almost 30 years. Being quadriplegic, having one blind eye and only 30% visual capacity in the other, unable to shower, eat, brush his teeth, or walk without the help of others, you would think that the description, "embracing life," would be far from accurate when describing this man. You'd be wrong! Christine considers her father a most extraordinary person with inexhaustible gifts to share with the world. She describes her father's vitality this way: to live life fully (check!), to wake up everyday feeling happy (check!), and never feel discouraged no matter what your situation (check mate!). With such an exemplary model for what it means to be a human being and as Christine's role model, he's the person she credits for giving her the vision and belief that all dreams and goals are possible when you truly want them and put forth every effort to achieve them.
As always, Christine put these same guidelines in place last year when, needing a new challenge, she opened her own respiratory health clinic, specializing in the pulmonary diseases (i.e., apneas, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Working in association with Louise's clinic, her Kili teammate, Christine is enjoying her greatest professional achievement to date. One her father, no doubt, fully embraces, happily sharing in her success!
What life lessons have I taken from all this?
I've learned so much from my family, my father, all my schooling, having a daughter, becoming a business owner. But, on that one Friday when Louise told me about Kilimanjaro, it started me thinking: should I join her, this team, am I really capable of climbing this fabulous mountain? I'm not a sports woman, so I went back and forth, wondering if I had the capacity to fulfill this challenge and commitment. Then, I imaged the lessons my father taught me and those I learn daily from my healthy, happy little girl.
The following Monday at work I told Louise, "I'm up for this project!" It will be the most exciting adventure of my life. Raising money for children with AIDS is a noble cause and these children deserve a chance at life. I know that only too well. Raising a healthy child motivates me to do my part, I owe them this effort. I would hope, in a different situation, I would receive the same. I'm afraid, but it's a healthy fear.
I know it will not be easy to climb Mount Kilimanjaro with the lack of oxygen combined with so many other challenges we will face. Whenever I feel discouraged, I will remind myself that so many people of all ages around the world are sick and confined to a hospital bed, or crutches, or a wheelchair, or hooked up to oxygen. They can only dream of taking these steps I'm able to take - not just during my time i Africa, but in my everyday adventures! So, yes, I will raise money for the children because they need our help as much as we, as an international community, need them! And, I will embrace every step fully (check!), feel happy to be so challenged (check!), and never feel discouraged about something that, with this team, I will make happen (check mate!) - Christine
Sunniva Sorby
SUNNIVA was born to combine her love for social good with adventure, something that comes naturally to this tall, blond Norwegian-born Canadian. Her extensive resume of extreme adventures includes being one of four women to make the grueling 700-mile trek across ANTARCTICA to reach the world's most remote destination, skiing 67 days while pulling 200-pound sleds into headwinds exceeding 50 mph and in temperatures that dropped to 67 degrees below zero. Six years later she led a team on a 33-day 350-mile coast-to-coast crossing of the GREENLAND ICECAP. These brief snapshots of Sunniva's "firsts" are only the tip of the iceberg (yes, pun intended!) in a profile of her love for humanity, the outdoors, and adventure. Sunniva is anchored strongly within her Scandinavian legacy, passed from generation to generation, to celebrate her heritage, revere those who came before her, and live to take risks. In December 2010, she plans to do all that and more by leading a women's expedition to Tanzania, Africa where, after 9 months of ensuring fundraising efforts targeting $100,000 and beyond, they will deliver antiretroviral medications to children with AIDS living in two African villages so they might one day live to celebrate their own African legacy. Then, the women will journey to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest singlestanding mountain in the world (19,340'), a dream of a lifetime for the majority of TEAM DREAM IT / DO IT! Joining Sunniva are co-leader, Kurt Wedberg, owner of Summit Mountaineering International, and psychophysiologist, Kathy S. Soverow, M.S., M.Ed., owner of Shape Your Life, Inc. who will work with everyone to get into optimal mental, emotional, and physical shape before, during and after the expedition.
Why this adventure? Why now?
Besides being ecstatic about adventuring with my sister, this is an incredible team of mothers/daughters, co-workers, associates, and best friends. I know people struggle to find ways to help those in need or become involved in causes for social justice. I've found that the place to start is heart-centered, doing what you are passionate about. The right cause and time unfolds and you discover that you have no choice but to follow your destiny. And, when you do, you'll experience the amazing and the magic.
KATHY is Creative Director/CEO of Shape Your Life, Inc., a mission-driven company with its team of experts distinguished in the area of integrative health and well-being. She has a multi-dimensional background as a psychotherapist, writer, author, film and television producer, former founding Editor-in-Chief of Moxie, a national magazine for women (Weider Publications, Inc.), guest expert for television, entrepreneur, corporate consultant and competitive athlete (marathoner, triathlete (Ironman), and mountaineer). Kathy has a dual Master's in Audiology and Counseling Psychology and studied as a doctoral student in the area of Neuropsychology at Louisiana State University. She is a leading expert in facilitating innovative and practical ways on how people can optimize/integrate stress, adventure, passion, intention, healthy eating and active living into their lives. She was a producer on the independent film, "The View from the Swing" starring Tim Conway and Jennifer Grant. She is creator/writer/ producer of the short documentary, "Shape Your Life." Currently she is pitching high concept alternative television shows to broadcast and cable networks. She is also creator/producer for CALLED TO RISE, a series based on this and upcoming expeditions where noble cause meets thrilling, yet harsh realities! "Adventure is at the heart of human potential, something I've experienced first hand. Adventure is what allows each of us unlimited opportunities to delve more deeply into who we are and what we are capable of doing. I especially love that adventure is a choice; an endeavor that has "want to", not "have to" written all over it; something that forces us out of our personal comfort zones of the ordinary and familiar and into an unknown filled with extraordinary promise. Adventure feeds my soul in ways that cannot be satisfied through any other pursuit, and I return forever more humbled and self-actualized. Adventure is likely the very reason I chose a career that allows me to work with others in facilitating ways they can immerse themselves in that middle divide to create the life they really, truly want to live. When this happens life just doesn't get any better - for them and for me!
Why make a commitment to this amazing, courageous group of women?
Because working together we are perfectly aligned: I will help facilitate ways for them to get into optimal mental, emotional, physical and spiritual shape for our adventure to Mount Kilimanjaro and everything in between. In return, I will learn from them.
Together we will embrace this mission to make a real difference in the world by helping children with AIDS around the world get the medication, resources and food they so desperately need to grow up to one day choose their own adventures."
LOUISE, born in St-Jerome, Quebec, comes from a family of 7 children. Her father, whom Louise greatly adores, passed away 9 years ago from cancer. She enjoys wonderful relationships with her large, extended family, especially with her very active mother and 19 year old sister, who Louise considers to be her own child since she helped raise her (there are 18 years between them). Most of her relatives continue to live within the same region. Louise is aunt to 11 nieces and nephews.
Her son, Tristan, now 12 years old, was born with a heart defect. When he was only 10 months old, Tristan had his first open heart surgery. With a successful partial correction, Tristan underwent a second heart surgery when he turned 6. And, he will have yet another again very soon. Because of his condition, Tristan also requires regular check ups every 3 to 6 months with his cardiologist.
Every mother/child relation is different. Their journey together has allowed Louise and Tristan to create a unique and loving bond, where he continuously mirrors for his mother healthy ways to live, not ever putting his condition on center stage. Louise finds this a healthy way to put so much about life into balanced perspective. Watching her young son undertake each procedure with such an optimistic spirit, Louise beams about her son's resilience and bravery, his strength and his courage. Tristan serves to model for Louise and others how to live life more fully. That doesn't mean that Louise doesn't experience more than a few scary moments, especially given her professional expertise. Louise is a nurse!
Working as a nurse over these past 17 years in the medical field with experience in hospitals and private and community centers, Louise is now a very proud owner of a private medical clinic in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec. Opening her clinic is her greatest passion, and one of Louise's greatest achievements in addition to bringing Tristan into the world! Her business partner, Caroline, is also the clinic's dietician. These two dynamos have worked so effectively together for the past 9 years and counting, they are expanding their business even today.
What life lessons have I taken from all this?
With all that I've experienced in my life, and recently going through a divorce, I am now focusing on my own personal state of health, happiness, and wellbeing. The Kilimanjaro project is part of that for me. I am looking forward to getting into great mental, emotional, and physical shape for this expedition. Also I'm looking forward to sharing a beautiful trip with this incredible group of dynamic women. This will be an experience of a lifetime for me. I am not a fearful person, so I don't have unnecessary worries about what we are doing, what we will see, the challenges ahead. My state of mind is the best it's ever been, and I know it's the right time for me to do this.
The children we are going to help in Africa share the same bond with their parents that I share with my precious Tristan. I empathize with the children, knowing that they often lose both parents to such a devastating disease, as well as getting sick themselves. Giving these children a chance at health and happiness are the reasons I'm fully committed to this fundraising project and adventure.
OK, I'll be honest about one really big challenge I have concerning our trip. And, it's really the most laughable. I'll have to deal with our not staying in comfortable facilities much of the time. I know, I know. But, I'll be the first to admit it, I'm a bit of a princess in that way. But, I will try very hard not to focus on such details. - Louise
Kurt Wedberg
KURT, like Sunniva, knows no limits. As co- leader of this expedition, he is founder of Sierra Mountaineering International located along the Kurt has led countless expeditions to major peaks in Africa, Alaska, the Alps, Antarctica, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, Mexico, Nepal, Peru, Russia, Tibet and Turkey. As a senior guide from 1991 through 2006 for Rainier Mountaineering International (RMI) in Washington state, Kurt has 119 ascents on Mt. Rainier, the highest peak in the contiguous United States and the mountain of choice for anyone preparing to climb the high summits of the world. Like Sunniva, Kurt is a quintessential leader, putting his complete focus and energy in experiential leadership and adventure-based team building. His worldwide adventures present exciting challenges to everyday life while providing exceptional opportunities to live and learn, cultivate new perspectives, and expand and strengthen mind, body and spirit. Kurt and Sunniva will work seamlessly to guide and inspire this team to new levels of discovery throughout the expedition!
Kurt's been at the forefront of adventure as a professional explorer and adventure guide for the past several decades. He has 69 successful international expeditions, including successful ascents on Mt. Everest in 1995 and again in 2008.
Why this adventure / this team?
Sunniva and I have worked together for, well more years than I can count! With a mutual love for adventure, seeing the world, helping people reach beyond their comfort zone and become transformed in the process, that's why I do this. It's not work, it's my passion! I also like to schedule several of these types of expeditions a year that integrate doing good with adventure. They are my favorite for obvious reasons, and when Sunniva called, I was in!
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ERIN is 39 years old and a marketing director working in an established Assisted Living community. But, her early years were far and away different from the life she now enjoys! Born to two brilliant, yet troubled parents who had 5 children 13 years before Erin's unexpected arrival, Erin wasn't privy to a Cinderella-like life. Erin's father would often disappear, leaving her mother alone to manage all five kids.! Her siblings were often left to fend for themselves; in essence, they were responsible for raising one another. Her sisters considered Erin's birth a blessing, having a beautiful baby girl to love unconditionally and raise as their own.
GENEVIEVE (call her, Gen, s'il vous plait!) was born in Rimouski, Quebec, Canada and raised mostly around the St-Jean-sur-Richelieu area. Since she can remember she has always thought of herself a child of the universe. In her wonderfully humorous way, Gen confirms that if her passion (addiction, maybe?) for traveling the world and people were ever to be categorized as a serious disease, she would, without question, nurture it for the rest of her life! Besides being a rolling stone, she admits to having a lifelong love affair with change, which at its core, brings fun and excitement into her life, not to mention that of so many others! Ask her to do anything routine and she'll have none of it. Non! Nada! Nothing!
BARBARA was born in a small coal mining town at the foot of the Pocono Mountains in Northeastern Pennsylvania as the youngest of 5 children in a family full of love. She is the real deal—a coal miner's daughter—and her father was one of the last remaining deep coal miners in that part of Pennsylvania. For her first 8 years, Barbara attended a small private Catholic school before convincing her parents that a public high school was the best route for her. By the time she was 13, she had already memorized Catholic mass, and made her father a promise that if she were allowed to transfer to a public high school she would be the top student in her school. Graduating Valedictorian of her high school graduating class, Barbara kept her part of the bargain. She went on to attend Pennsylvania State University, a school that proudly lives up to its reputation, "Happy Valley." Those that know her could attest that Barbara had found her academic home! Yet, two years into a major in Computer Science was enough to convince her that writing code for the rest of her life would not make her a "happy" girl. So Barbara switched from Computer to General Science, hence beginning a long career that would lead her down many paths, including the ultimate search for meaning and purpose. 
ANGELA was born in Ontario and raised in Montreal, Quebec, Canada by a single mother and a large extended family. Through her maternal Grandmother Angela is of Native-Canadian descent, being of the Cree nation. When she was 15, her interest for anything associated with excitement and personal growth literally sped to the next level when she took her inaugural Harley ride to Mount Washington, insisting that she drive rather than sit passively in the passenger seat. What was indicative then as it is today are Angela's traits to take charge and fearlessly and optimistically jump into life's possibilities. At 18, she packed her belongings and left her native Canada, becoming the only member of her family - an honour she still holds today - to travel the world in search of adventure, enrichment, professional & personal success.
BETTINA is younger sister to the expedition co-leader, Sunniva, and has only vicariously experienced her big sister's world-wide adventures. Bettina decided it was time she join in the fun so that the two of them, when regaling stories at family gatherings, could do so in stereophonic detail! Bettina, known as "TT" or "Tee" to those closest to her, is mother to a teenage son who knows first hand how seriously his mum takes her responsibilities in raising him to be the healthy, driven, empathetic young man he continues to become. For 16 years, Kjell's mother (a popular Nordic name pronounced "Shell") has steadfastly held the position as CEO to her very active family. As a highly social person, Bettina works as an independent Event Planner/Promoter. In years past she also worked a few part-time jobs so that she was available to take Kjell to/from school, all his extracurricular acitivities, including football practice, and the Catalina Island (off the Southern California coast) ferry boat every other week for his joint visits with his dad. Recently and in her spare time (!) she's discovered a new love - culinary exploration. She gets great joy from cooking for her boys, husband, Del, and Kjell. Her reply when asked to describe her vision of heaven, "The combination of a good hike and a gourmet picnic!" Whether it's her Norwegian/ Canadian upbringing, or her highly energetic personality, Bettina, like Sunniva, loves anything to do with outdoor activities. Within reason, of course! Which might also explain the "crevasse" in the timeline noting Bettina's undergraduate years to earn her B.A. In 1984, majoring in Psychology and with only one course remaining in her 4-year curriculum, Bettina approached her own proverbial fork in the road, given the choice to either: Take her final in the History of Psychology class; or, because it had snowed the night before, go skiing. She felt the choice was clear - at least at the time!
LINDA, better known as Lili, was raised in Quebec, Canada in a family and home filled with joy. The Labelles welcomed everyone into their fold to enjoy sports, home-cooked meals, community, and so much more. In an environment filled with an endless stream of fun-filled activities and laughter, along with her father's passion for sports, it's not surprising that Lili followed his lead into the world of water & cross-country skiing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, kayaking, rollerblading, and softball, the sport in which she will never forget her favorite coach - her daddy!
CHANTAL was born in Aylmer, Canada before her parents, both working toward their Ph.D.s, moved their young and growing family to Montreal. She recalls a most happy childhood, living in a college setting where both parents worked as professors, and she, her brother and sister enjoyed all things associated with such a lifestyle. But living in one place for long didn't seem to suit this family. After only 2 years in Montreal, her parents packed them up and moved to the Laurentide, Quebec. It was a good thing that Chantal loved to travel, because it was very rainy in Quebec and her parents packed them up every summer vacation to follow the sun! They would travel to places like Cape Cod, Long Island, and anywhere there was a beach! When she was 6 years old the family traveled throughout Europe. From that point on she would enjoy summers either in France with her family or on a beach somewhere in the United States. Her teenage years were memorable, with their home filled with friends, laughter and great times.
ROCIO is a special member of TEAM DREAM IT/DO IT! As co-owner of Centre Yoga Plus in Old Montreal Quebec Canada, she is providing her extensive expertise to helping the women stay nimble, flexible (so many definitions within the context of this project!) and joyful throughout a year that will test their focus and energy. Not only is this team of women raising awareness and funds for the project - Climb Up so Kids can Grow Up! - they must practice creative ways to balance their lives at work, home and during their training sessions for Mount Kilimanjaro! This is where Rocio is golden!
CHRISTINE, born in Montreal, was raised in Joliette, Quebec, Canada with three sisters and a brother. She describes her family many different ways, all with a common theme - they are best friends, function as a team, and always have one another's back no matter what!
SUNNIVA was born to combine her love for social good with adventure, something that comes naturally to this tall, blond Norwegian-born Canadian. Her extensive resume of extreme adventures includes being one of four women to make the grueling 700-mile trek across ANTARCTICA to reach the world's most remote destination, skiing 67 days while pulling 200-pound sleds into headwinds exceeding 50 mph and in temperatures that dropped to 67 degrees below zero. Six years later she led a team on a 33-day 350-mile coast-to-coast crossing of the GREENLAND ICECAP. These brief snapshots of Sunniva's "firsts" are only the tip of the iceberg (yes, pun intended!) in a profile of her love for humanity, the outdoors, and adventure. Sunniva is anchored strongly within her Scandinavian legacy, passed from generation to generation, to celebrate her heritage, revere those who came before her, and live to take risks. In December 2010, she plans to do all that and more by leading a women's expedition to Tanzania, Africa where, after 9 months of ensuring fundraising efforts targeting $100,000 and beyond, they will deliver antiretroviral medications to children with AIDS living in two African villages so they might one day live to celebrate their own African legacy. Then, the women will journey to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest singlestanding mountain in the world (19,340'), a dream of a lifetime for the majority of TEAM DREAM IT / DO IT! Joining Sunniva are co-leader, Kurt Wedberg, owner of Summit Mountaineering International, and psychophysiologist, Kathy S. Soverow, M.S., M.Ed., owner of Shape Your Life, Inc. who will work with everyone to get into optimal mental, emotional, and physical shape before, during and after the expedition.
KATHY is Creative Director/CEO of Shape Your Life, Inc., a mission-driven company with its team of experts distinguished in the area of integrative health and well-being. She has a multi-dimensional background as a psychotherapist, writer, author, film and television producer, former founding Editor-in-Chief of Moxie, a national magazine for women (Weider Publications, Inc.), guest expert for television, entrepreneur, corporate consultant and competitive athlete (marathoner, triathlete (Ironman), and mountaineer). Kathy has a dual Master's in Audiology and Counseling Psychology and studied as a doctoral student in the area of Neuropsychology at Louisiana State University. She is a leading expert in facilitating innovative and practical ways on how people can optimize/integrate stress, adventure, passion, intention, healthy eating and active living into their lives. She was a producer on the independent film, "The View from the Swing" starring Tim Conway and Jennifer Grant. She is creator/writer/ producer of the short documentary, "Shape Your Life." Currently she is pitching high concept alternative television shows to broadcast and cable networks. She is also creator/producer for CALLED TO RISE, a series based on this and upcoming expeditions where noble cause meets thrilling, yet harsh realities! "Adventure is at the heart of human potential, something I've experienced first hand. Adventure is what allows each of us unlimited opportunities to delve more deeply into who we are and what we are capable of doing. I especially love that adventure is a choice; an endeavor that has "want to", not "have to" written all over it; something that forces us out of our personal comfort zones of the ordinary and familiar and into an unknown filled with extraordinary promise. Adventure feeds my soul in ways that cannot be satisfied through any other pursuit, and I return forever more humbled and self-actualized. Adventure is likely the very reason I chose a career that allows me to work with others in facilitating ways they can immerse themselves in that middle divide to create the life they really, truly want to live. When this happens life just doesn't get any better - for them and for me!
LOUISE, born in St-Jerome, Quebec, comes from a family of 7 children. Her father, whom Louise greatly adores, passed away 9 years ago from cancer. She enjoys wonderful relationships with her large, extended family, especially with her very active mother and 19 year old sister, who Louise considers to be her own child since she helped raise her (there are 18 years between them). Most of her relatives continue to live within the same region. Louise is aunt to 11 nieces and nephews.
KURT, like Sunniva, knows no limits. As co- leader of this expedition, he is founder of Sierra Mountaineering International located along the Kurt has led countless expeditions to major peaks in Africa, Alaska, the Alps, Antarctica, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, Mexico, Nepal, Peru, Russia, Tibet and Turkey. As a senior guide from 1991 through 2006 for Rainier Mountaineering International (RMI) in Washington state, Kurt has 119 ascents on Mt. Rainier, the highest peak in the contiguous United States and the mountain of choice for anyone preparing to climb the high summits of the world. Like Sunniva, Kurt is a quintessential leader, putting his complete focus and energy in experiential leadership and adventure-based team building. His worldwide adventures present exciting challenges to everyday life while providing exceptional opportunities to live and learn, cultivate new perspectives, and expand and strengthen mind, body and spirit. Kurt and Sunniva will work seamlessly to guide and inspire this team to new levels of discovery throughout the expedition!