Brenda Wall
Q: What makes you most nervous about hiking?
I am worried about #1 being cold – I HATE the cold and #2 altitude sickness – it’s something that you cannot prepare for. Physical and mental I will be ready for and I’ll do my best to acclimatize by going up the mountain “pole pole”, meaning “slowly” in Swahili.
Q: What meal are you most looking forward to once you return home?
I think that a lot of rice and beans will be served on the mountain for energy, so probably a great steak, salad and glass of wine!
Q: What is something that surprised you about this process?
I have had this on my “bucket list” for a number of years. I’m surprised that my friends want to do this with me. Makes me very proud to know that I have a little part in influencing them to do something of this magnitude.
Q: Why are you hiking?
As I said, it’s been on my bucket list for a number of years. I have always been drawn to Africa. I traveled to Ethiopia and Uganda in 2011 for the first time. This will be my 6th trip to Africa. I started the nonprofit “Wall of Hope” in 2015 with the goal of helping around the world, but especially in African countries. This hike brings awareness to the needs that we can help with in many countries and my goal is to raise $19,341 so we can continue to help.
Donna Pledger
Q: What makes you most nervous about hiking?
I am most nervous about the unpredictable effects of altitude especially because we live at sea level.
Q: What meal are you most looking forward to once you return home?
Veggie pizza and a glass of good cabernet sauvignon.
Q: What is something that surprised you about this process?
I was surprised that others are inspired by our plans and living vicariously just a bit through us. I'm so grateful to everyone who is helping us train or giving us great advice about gear, etc.
Q: Why are you hiking?
Last year I was diagnosed with cancer and had surgery and chemotherapy. Cancer is unfortunately part of my life but I'm determined not to let it take over my whole life. Now seems exactly the right time for me to set a big scary audacious goal so I'm gonna climb Kili!
Jennifer Chaussee
Q: What makes you most nervous about hiking?
Being prepared for cold weather.
Q: What meal are you most looking forward to once you return home?
Fresh seafood.
Q: What is something that surprised you about this process?
I'm surprised to have reached higher endurance and strength levels. I know I have a lot further to go.
Q: Why are you hiking?
I'm hiking to inspire my children and for myself to reach a higher fitness level evidenced by this amazing accomplishment.