I first went to Haiti alone. I found out about a mission, contacted the director, and then just went. I was definitely a little reckless that first trip. I hitch-hiked from Santiago, DR to the border, crossed on foot, and then took public transport into the capitol. I got spooked when I saw the UN soldiers sitting in tanks, wearing body armor, with assault rifles slung over their shoulders. Meanwhile I couldn't speak the language, didn't know my way around, and was carrying around everything I owned. In the fear on my face the bus driver saw opportunity. I had previous said no to his offer of a $7 fee for him to go off his route and drive me to my hotel, this time when repeated the offer for $10, I jumped at the chance.

Growing up I could see Mt. Rainier form my town. The icy summit looming above the clouds always filled me with awe and wonder. I dreamed about one day reaching the top but didn't know even where to begin. In 2002 I joined a church climbing group. At the time I was new to climbing with no real experience and no equipment. The group lead me up a couple mountains in the spring for preparation and by summer I was ready to join in the attempt on Mt. Rainer. I rented all my personal gear from REI and depended on my teammates to share their stove and tent. Although it was the toughest thing I had ever done I made it to the top and more importantly, I made it home safe.