Photo by Phil “Tank” Wu
My IBD Adventure was an experience of a life time. I never dreamed that I could accomplish something like this. I had never climbed a mountain before Rob contacted me, and then here I was saddling up for the experience of climbing to the tallest mountain in the world. I had no idea going into this that it would change my life so dramatically.
When I met the 10, 6 trekkers and 3 climbers in Kathmandu, I had no idea what to expect. Will this trip be fun? Will I like everyone? The answer was a resounding yes! I found friendship with all the trekkers and climbers on the IBD Adventure. As the trip went on I came to know everyone on a personal level. I learned that Bob wanted to retire but just needed a push, I learned that Carly loved cake and momo’s going into this trip but hates them now, but has found a new love: ra ra noodle soup. I found that Clinton is a true trooper when he is sick, and never will give up, and can’t wait to get home to watch Avatar. Oh Clinton, by the way, did Betsy every get rescued? I learned on my adventure that Paul is a true leader and an even better super baje, who genuinely cares for the safety and security of all those around him. Thank you Paul for all you have done. I found that Phil is the “Tank,” enough said, and runs on spam fuel.
Now the three climbers I knew they had the strength and drive to go all the way to the top. Never have I ever had a hard time keeping up with walking with anyone till I met John F, Darrel, and Rob. These men have more strength in their pinky than I will ever dream of having in a lifetime. The good Lord truly gave them talents and climbing and mountaineering is definitely one of them. When I think about how these mens’ dreams have been fulfilled with their seven summits campaign I just smile knowing that this trip truly opened my eyes to know that with hard work and determination like these three men everything is possible. Congratulations guys. Your hard work and determination paid off. I can’t wait to join you all on a new adventure.
You can’t forget John O. I spoke of talents and gifts, this man has them all in the world of websites, computers, pictures and stories. I am so thankful for John’s updates and stories and blogs throughout this whole trip. The hard work that went into this is outstanding. I am proud to say that I have met you, known you and befriended you along the way. Keep up the good work John, and thanks again.
When I arrived home I knew that I was a changed man from this trip. Not only had I lost 35lbs and am now in the best shape of my life, but I came back with a new take on life. The experiences I took down with me from the mountain truly shaped me in ways I never dreamed of. It had been a difficult couple of years for me going into this trip. I had lost some of the adventure that used to drive me for life before this trip. The IBD Adventure trip to Everest filled my cup and made it over flow. I came back with a drive for life and a drive for education.
IBD Adventures gave me the want to spread the word about the importance of education in the world of IBD, Ostomies, Crohn’s, and Colitis. It showed me that all things are possible no matter what physical ailment you have upon you. This trip showed me that you have to have the want and the drive to succeed in the things you start. Live life to its fullest, I know I will from now on. There is hunger for life living in me again, and I can’t wait for my next trek with IBD Adventures. Thank you again Rob for this amazing adventure, and I hope that in the near future we can stand side by side on another amazing IBD Adventure.
Rob: “When I learned that Tony would be joining the IBD Adventures Everest Base Camp Trek I was thrilled. Tony was the 2009 Great Comebacks™ Award winner. It speaks volumes of his character that ConvaTec was so eager to make it possible for Tony to join us in Nepal. We’ve known one another through the Youth Rally for several years – Tony volunteers a week each summer helping children and young adults adjust to living with an ostomy – his insights and outlook on life fits so well with mine. He’s an inspiration to everyone around him. While he speaks so highly of strength in others, I know from speaking with every climber and trekker on this expedition, Tony’s strength provided many moments of laughter, emotion, courage and will. This trip wouldn’t have been as successful as it was if Tony hadn’t been such an important part of the team.”
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Great story Tony…Carly speaks highly of you…As her mother…thanks for looking out for her!!!
Let me see, altitude education, altitude singing, a goats beard..the stories keep coming and you helped to make it memorable.
Tony, your truly one inspiring young man. I so vividly recall our very deep Kala Patar conversations, emotions and the your inherent humor along the teams trail of adventure. Your wide eyed wonder about so many things proved beyond a doubt “You weren’t in Kansas Anymore” , and were truly open to the Universe to provide you with a new outlook on life’s journey. On the next trip, we will find you a Yak to ride! Namaste
To Rob Hill, John Furneaux and Darrell Ainscough
As a father of a 7yr old son, Nathan, who has ulcerative colitis your 7 summits campaign and in particular, your final summiting of Mt.Everest truely confirms that anything is possible and nothing can stand in your way. With the love and support of friends and family, great things are possible. Rob, thank you for all you have done and all I’m sure you will continue to do. Nathan, Andy, Elizabeth and I can’t wait to meet up with you and hear of your fantastic acheievments. You truely are Changing Attitudes with Altitude.
best regards
Andrew, Nathan, Elizabeth and Andy
HOW TO TELL THE TOP OF A HILL
The top of a hill
Is not until
The bottom is below.
And you have to stop
When you reach the top
For there’s no more UP to go.
To make it plain
Let me explain:
The one MOST reason why
You have to stop
When you reach the top–is:
The next step is the sky!
By John Ciardi
~~~~~
I saw this poem today and just had to share it with the NGKG team. Congratulations on reaching the one place on earth where the only next step up is the sky. And hooray for making it down safely, too.
Great to hear you made it safely. Another epic for a great awareness campaign about Crohn’s and Colitis survivors. All the best to your team, keep up the great work!