WHY I CLIMB offers a meaningful way to honor loved ones impacted by cancer while engaging your community in support. By participating, you’ll not only challenge yourself, but also contribute to a cause that uplifts survivors and their caregivers.

All proceeds from Why I Climb benefit Survivor Wellness, a nonprofit organization supporting cancer survivors and caregivers.

Participants in WHY I CLIMB will be honored at Survivors at the Summit. Register separately for the Summit; no requirement to attend.

WHY I CLIMB 

My name is Yolanda. I am a breast cancer survivor and a ten year member of Survivor Wellness.

Last year, I participated in the Why I Climb Campaign, and it was a truly amazing experience. Though I have hiked at  Survivors at the Summit many times, doing my own Why I Climb hike last year was an opportunity to take time to reflect and honor a loved one who passed away recently from cancer.

Making a commitment to myself, choosing which trails to climb in honor of my friend, and having a flag dedicated to her gave me time to remember all the good times we had, as well as feeling the grief of her loss.

I chose a trail that my friend Val and I hiked many times together. A few friends joined in. 

When I reached the summit of my climb for my friend Val, I felt immense joy, knowing I was able to do this climb for her. I felt her spirit as I lifted up her flag, peace and comfort as I held it, and felt her smiling down on me as I stood holding it.

I did several climbs last summer for my Why I Climb challenge. With each one, I felt stronger and more dedicated, and look forward to participating in Why I Climb this year.

Please join Why I Climb this year to honor your friends and family members, and to support Survivor Wellness. I hope to see you at Survivors at the Summit as well, to celebrate all the Why I Climb participants!