Ashland Community Food Bank

The Challenge: Walking the Walk

March, 2024

Three months ago, I underwent open-heart surgery. Three months from now, I will participate in a half-marathon ascending 5500 feet to the summit of Mt. Ashland. Having just turned 55, reaching the summit will feel like achieving the impossible (or at least the improbable).

As someone dedicated to health, healing, and fitness, it was shocking to be diagnosed with liver cirrhosis last summer. No symptoms other than a recent bout of atrial fibrillation. I thought to inquire about a long standing issue with high liver enzymes. One test led to another and it turned out that I had cirrhosis. After much confusion and more tests, we discovered that the cause was constrictive pericarditis of my heart, resulting from a viral infection I had contracted 33 years ago.

On December 12, I underwent a pericardiectomy, which is an open-heart surgery. Thanks to my overall fitness and attention to both mind and body, my recovery has been swift. Faced with this threat to my life, I decided not to take time for granted and embarked on a journey to do the impossible (or at least the improbable): running (run/hike) a half-marathon up 5500 feet to the summit of Mt. Ashland.

This challenge is not merely a physical one; it's a testament to human resilience and the power of recovery.

Why Mt. Ashland? My Place of Resilience

The Mt. Ashland Hill Climb represents more than just a race to me. It symbolizes my recovery and is a testament to overcoming challenges that once seemed insurmountable. During my surgery preparations, the mental image of Mt. Ashland served as my “safe place"—a beacon of hope and strength in my most vulnerable times. Now, as I approach my 55th birthday, I'm ready to turn that vision into reality, proving to myself and the world that recovery can lead to achievements that once seemed unattainable.

The Purpose: Supporting Our Local Food Bank

This challenge is not just for my personal victory but also to contribute to our community in a meaningful way. Having recently taken on the role of coordinating the relationship between Temple Emek Shalom and the Ashland Community Food Bank, I've decided to dedicate my race up Mt. Ashland to raising funds for them. They are a beacon of hope and support for many in our community. Just as I've received overwhelming support and guidance through my health journey, I aim to extend that same compassion to those in need, ensuring that no one has to face their challenges alone.

How You Can Help: Join Me on This Journey

Your support can make a significant difference. Consider it as pledging a donation for every 100 feet I climb—$1 for every 100 feet equates to $55 for 5500 feet. Or half that. Or quadruple that. Whatever amount you're comfortable with, even a dollar helps! You'll not only be cheering me on but also providing much-needed assistance to our local food bank. Every donation brings us closer to a community where no one has to worry about their next meal.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

This journey from heart surgery to the summit of Mt. Ashland symbolizes hope, resilience, and the collective power of community support. Let's prove that together, we can conquer not only our personal Mt. Ashlands but also the challenges faced by those around us.

About the Ashland Community Food Bank:

Our mission is to provide food at no cost to all those in need living in Ashland and Talent, while increasing awareness of food insecurity. We serve ALL people with dignity.