Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro for a Cause: A Journey of Hope and Strength
This February, we follow up with Western’s 2024 Earth Week challenge winner, Brenda Anderson, who will embark on the adventure of a lifetime later this month. This journey is a personal tribute to honour her mother, aunts, friends, and countless others who have faced cancer.
"Through this journey, I have met so many people touched by this disease directly or through their family members and heard so many stories," she reflects. "It hurts to know there are so many and still no cure. I use their strength to keep me going."
The decision to climb Mount Kilimanjaro was not made lightly. It comes from a place of deep personal connection, as Brenda has watched her loved ones face the challenges of cancer. Tragically, one of her aunts passed away after her second battle with breast cancer just weeks before her departure. "She was so proud of what I was trying to do. I know she’ll be with me on the mountain, in spirit, which keeps me going.”
Training for this challenge hasn’t been easy. Between caring for her parents and supporting her daughter, Brenda has worked tirelessly to fit in training. "I’ve done bike rides between Canmore and Banff on the Legacy Trail, run many stairs in the Edmonton River Valley, and did several mountain hikes in the summer to prepare. It’s not just about physical strength—mentally, I’m preparing for a tough journey."
As she heads to Tanzania for the climb, Brenda is deeply aware of the significance of her mission. "I’ve carved a wooden bear and collected 26 initials of family, friends, co-workers, and their family members. I can’t leave it on the mountain, but I’ll take it with me to remember why I’m doing this, especially when it gets tough."
This is truly the largest adventure she has ever embarked on solo and is a testament to her resilience and passion for others, aligning perfectly with Western values of caring for others and supporting causes close to our hearts.
Aside from supporting cancer research and health resources, Brenda shared other ways we could help her and others affected by cancer.
Her commitment is more than a physical challenge—it’s a tribute to the people she loves and the hope that we will someday have a cure. Let's rally behind Brenda, sending our best wishes and support as she undertakes this extraordinary feat.
