I am delighted you have applied for this project and thereby shown your dedication to fight your disease, share your experience and inspire others to follow your example.
CLIMB for CANCER! There are similar projects around the world; however, each and every one is special, just like us. We all face our struggles and each of us has a special story. The key is not to give up! While we live, we have an opportunity to do more and to accomplish something we have never dared to dream of.
In this case — to acquire basic climbing skills, reach the top of the mountain that, for some of us, might be the first one ever. It will be a challenge for all of us to reach the top of Mont Blanc (4810 m) — the highest peak of the Alps (and also in Western Europe). Moreover, we will do it by taking not the easiest route.
Most probably you do not know many people who have done something like this.
My name is Kristaps Liepiņš, I am a climbing instructor with more than 30 years of climbing experience. I have reached the top of Mont Blanc nine times. Me and my wife who is also my assistant climber Kristīne Liepiņa with seven years of climbing experience (she has reached the top of Mont Blanc four times, climbed the world’s highest volcano Ojos del Salado (6983 m) and kilometre-high rock walls) will help you acquire the skills necessary to make this plan come true which will be both physically and technically challenging experience. Determination, strength and focus on safety requirements will be very essential!
However, awareness of the “technology of success” makes us believe we can do it together!
Of course, only those can count on success who are ready for it. Therefore, we have made a list of things to do before travelling to the Alps:
1. Maintain a good physical condition — every week before going to the Alps, organise a practice lasting at least 1.5 h or 2 h, preferably it should be a fast walk or slow run in a hilly region (up and down the hills). You should have accelerated breathing while exercising, but still be able to maintain a conversation with your practice companion. If possible, use trekking or Nordic walking poles. In your daily life, you should walk more and take stairs. If possible, exercise every day. Exercises focusing on the deep muscles are especially recommended.
2. Check the list of clothes and equipment carefully and do not get confused! Even if at first glance it seems you do not have anything, some things you already have, some you can borrow from friends, and the technical equipment can be rented. We can help you with advice and rental equipment.
3. Get familiarised with the schedule (acclimatisation and training schedule, and the list of climbs by days). If you have any questions, please contact us and we will try to answer your queries!
Good luck!
Kristaps and Kristīne
Kalnu Grupa
https://www.facebook.com/kalnugrupa/