How we help

I would say that the most difficult things over the course of my efforts thus far is to show individuals how what I am doing helps the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association, “to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.” It is a serious mission, and I feel that when I am out climbing mountains, it is sometimes difficult to imagine that what I am doing has any real effect on curing Alzheimer’s. Who is to say that I am not just out trying to get a free vacation?

I am happy to say that this is not the case, and although I guess there is no real way to know if I am telling the truth, one should take comfort in knowing that all scams eventually come to an end. But no, I am not a scammer. So far, every cent put towards my climbs has come out of my pocket. 100% of the donations received have gone to the Alzheimer’s Association. On top of that, my effort to raise awareness by climbing at least triples the amount of planning time for each trip. Contacting media, knowing where I will be each hour,setting up meetings and presentations, it all adds up. I have a great time, I really do, but there is much more to Summit Up than just a vacation.

The true value that I am able to bring to the table comes from the interest in my climbs among people who wouldn’t otherwise have much of an interest in Alzheimer’s. If Alzheimer’s is truly going to be eliminated, then we need the best minds in the country working on it.Often the best minds are still in or just out of college, a demographic not traditionally affected by Alzheimer’s. After each of my climbs and after each time a story is done on Summit Up, I get numerous emails letting me know how my climbs have inspired them to do something to help. Sometimes it is for Alzheimer’s; sometimes it is for something else. Either way, we are making a difference by starting the movement that is necessary for any change to happen. My climbs are surely not an end to the problem, but I hope and continually work to make them the launching point for a young generation motivated to end Alzheimer’s before it is too late for them to do so.
Have a great week!