Reflection & Thanks From Jennifer

We did it. 19,340 feet. All the way to the peak of Africa.

It was a great week with challenges that don't come close to those faced by the kids supported by Power To Be. But to us, on that mountain, the tests we faced were very real. The cold, the rain and the intense long days were both thrilling and at times overwhelming.

Kilimanjaro was beautiful. Every morning when I faced the climb ahead, I was a little worried and a lot excited. Every day seemed to bring a different mountain. The views and the experience changed so much as we gained altitude. The lack of oxygen affected every one of us in different ways. Some greater than others but everyone felt it.

The night we climbed to the summit was awesome in every sense of the word. The climb started at midnight with a couple hours of sleep and a belly full of yet another great meal prepared by our Tanzanian team. It was a long slow shuffle with few breaks. The temperature seemed to drop with every step and the available oxygen was less and less with every breath. I climbed right behind our lead guide and all I could see ahead was darkness and the glowing headlamps of other groups moving ahead of us.

I struggled with the oxygen reduction differently than I expected. I fought an extreme need to sleep for about 3 hours. I had to have powdered glucose and energy bars and candy every 10-15 minutes. It was not what
I expected but it was manageable so I can't complain too much. Another member of our team made it to the top only with the aid of an oxygen tank supplied by our guides.

The Summit was reached at 7:00am. It was overwhelming and I don't think any of us had dry eyes. Every step had been worth it. The glacier and the clear view of the mountain was something I wish every one of you could experience. I can't explain the beauty and the feeling of being part of something so big.

I want to thank everyone who supported me in our drive to raise funds for the children and youth of Power To Be. It is an extraordinary organisation and worthy of every penny.

Thank you all so very much.

-Jennifer