January 28, 2009

Another day up the mountain, and another day to reflect the importance and reason behind the climbs. As the team heads up Kilimanjaro, they do so knowing the support they are giving to SIC.  Having successfully tackled the other two causes- education and the environment, health across East Africa, and particularly North-Eastern Tanzania, remains to be the final challenge.

The team spent two days prior to the Kili climb with SIC.  The first day was spent at their office, getting to know the staff, and the second day was spent in the village, meeting community members who were HIV+ and seeing the impact SIC is having first hand.

But perhaps more striking to the climbers, was the impact 3 Peaks is having.  The following charts are just two examples of how far the funds raised are being distributed. It is shocking yet empowering, and will no doubt help the 09 team reach the summit.

The team had a relatively shorter trek to the next camp, barafu (ice) camp today.  All have made it and all are well.  An executive decision has been made by the guides to split the team into 2 climbing parties, the fast and the faster, in an attempt to join both at the summit. We have heard word from the guieds, but no message from the team.

The first party has likely left for the summit already, or is nearing to leave any minute, and the second team will head up shortly thereafter. They are currently at 4600m and will strive over the coming hours ot make it to 5895m – and reach Uhuru Point…the roof of Africa.

Our thoughts are no doubt with them every step of the way.

Support for the team has been riveting, from text messages to phone calls…comments on the blog to emails.  Luce’s parents randomly stumbled upon the Summits Africa base camp crew in Arusha today and send their excitement…and likely share the anxiety that many of the team’s family and friends are feeling.  They have been at the base of Kili for the past few days on the western slopes looking up and sending their energy to the team.  Many thanks to them for their support! Mara’s boyfriend touched down in Tanzania as well today and is likely drinking Kilimanjaros … thinking of her up on Kilimanjaro!

A big Happy Birthday to Yvette.  This should be one she won’t forget! Hopefully the camp crew was able to supply her with a little something in lieu of birthday cake.  More celebrations to follow on after the descent.

And as for the entire team…We all say a massive cheers and look forward to the celebrations in due time.  For now, our thoughts are being sent your way.  Go team 09!!!  Keep the momentum flowing.  We are all watching and the organizations you are supporting have all, without a doubt, been moved by your efforts. Climb on!