Wednesday, November 5, 2008

This is what I have been up to.......

Just a bragging Blog.......

I am very proud of my son Miguel, 70, who has played a phenomenal season with the Nottingham Northstars. It ain't over yet. As of Monday, when we defeated Ewing, 20-14, we are in the State Playoffs. To be announced.......

Sadly on Friday night one of the players on the team, lost his 15 year old sister due to natural causes. She collapsed while Trick or Treating. I must give kudos to the Ewing team for allowing the Northstars to postpone the game that was originally scheduled on Saturday so as to gather the team together at the High School and and help them deal with there grief for there fellow teammate. It is true sportmanship when this occurs. As a result, on Monday night, the young girls brother scored one of the touchdowns which led the team to there victory. As the paper quoted him saying "I just wanted to let her know that I love her" as he reached the end zone, paused for a second, looked into the night sky and pointed both hands into the air. Truely a moment.

My son is breaking records. On the field, in the weight room, he is a force to be dealt with. I have never been prouder of him as I am right now.

This is dedicated to you, my son, because I have always, and will always, believe in you.

Miguel Colon #70 - Defensive Lineman Captain
Honored as Player of the Week this season

GOOD LUCK MIGUEL AND TO THE NORTHSTARS!!!!!

Strong Feather - Eileen

Photobucket

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Brewster Girls Soccer Tournament - 2008 Street Team


Hey guys,


Eric is up to tournament number 2 this year.

Eric is from "A Trail Called Hope - III - Mount Hood. He also went and climbed Kilimanjaro about two weeks after returning from Mount Hood this year, and brought back a bunch of information and personal experience to help the team with this years coming climb.


The Brewster Girls Soccer Team will be helping "the Regulars" to kick Alzheimer's and Parkinson's by raising awareness at the tournament which Eric has designed for 2008. This is a perfect example of being creative in the ways you can help to raise awareness for Alzheimer's & Parkinson's as well as fund for research. If anyone is in the neighborhood stop by and meet up with Eric (Gladiator) and say hi to the girls.


In the attached flyer you'll notice Eric had the girls sign a Team Fox banner then he took it to Mount Hood and Kilimanjaro (where he photographed it again).


World up,

Enzo

Sunday, August 31, 2008

Mont Blanc Correction from Tomb Raider

Hi there!




















Thanks for your congratulating notes :o)
I have to correct myself, because in the first account I gave of our ascent I mistakenly wrote we started at 8:30am on summit day and were back in the Gouter hut at 12:20 - so, for the record: really we reached the summit at 12:20 and got back to the hut 2 hrs later at around 2:30pm. (Making it in 4 hrs would have been waaay too quick!)
















I finally uploaded this year's MB pics onto my computer; here are the best!
Do you recognize the odd one out? (That's my ex on his motorcycle tour - in Italy perhaps - w/friends; but it's the t-shirt that's important!)



I don't know you guys had a similar experience, but for me stepping out of the woods back into civilization at 10pm after descending from MB was just so weird. Up there everything felt relevant and simple and obvious. Chamonix was interesting and colorful, but different already and especially back in Budapest I felt out of place... Nature's fantastic. I seriously considered canceling my new teaching position even in the very last moment in favor of a life devoted to the outdoors, and was checking airfares online a minute before I left home for my first teachers' meeting :o)

But of course I didn't say no to teaching at the high school so now I'm up for a new adventure in the next 10 months. If you don't hear from me it's because I'm caught up in a high school's life!

Hugs,
Ooodri

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Search for Team Mates - 2009

The Regulars – A Trail Called Hope – IV – Kilimanjaro – 2009

Hey guys I am just about at capacity at the moment although I’m waiting on word from the park system in Tanzania regarding the maximum group size.
But with that being said I’m still looking for team mates for the up coming fourth climb of the Regulars www.myspace.com/10mountains10years .

Although I made a general post on MySpace and then on our blog page I don't believe I will get much respose because many people are simply afraid of the mountains. But with that being said, I have sent this you and only a handful of other people I know who I believe just might be up20for the adventure.

This is your opportunity to help shine a light on the need for cures. This is your chance to help the 30 million people around the world who are suffering with Alzheimer’s Disease and or Parkinson’s Disease.

Although Kilimanjaro is the most straight forward of all the mountains on the 10 Mountains – 10 Years project list. It is still a very tall walk up with one of the highest vertical gain’s from base to summit. The top of Kilimanjaro sits at 19,563 ft.

Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, located in Northeast Tanzania, near the Kenya border. Kilimanjaro is an extinct volcano, and is one of the most massive in the world. It towers 15,000 feet above the surrounding arid plains, and 2.5 square miles of its surface are over 18,500 feet. Beneath its ice dome, snow extends down long gullies that have been eroded in the=2 0mountain sides. Kilimanjaro's summit crater, known as Kibo, measures an incredible 1.5 miles across. The highest point on Kibo's steep rim is Uhuru, the highest peak in Africa. Nestled in the center of Kibo is a smaller crater, 600-feet deep in sulfurous ashes.

The sights will be spectacular. Just imagine looking in on direction to see the African plain’s below filled with giraffe, zebra, lion and other exotic animals. Then look in the opposite direction to see the continents highest mountains – Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro is the world's highest free standing, snow-covered equatorial mountain. Now charted and climbed; stories of her resident man-eating spirits are relegated to the realms of folklore. But Mount Kilimanjaro continues to preserve a mysticism that defies all recent knowledge of her slopes.

Images of the towering snow-covered cone rising majestically from fertile green foothills have become a powerful motif of Tanzania's extraordinary extremes. Few could deny a very distinct sense of awe when the cloud clears to reveal a glimpse of the towering peaks, shining bright in the equatorial sun.

A Towering Life Force
Kilimanjaro represents a powerful life force for the local Chagga people and all those who have made their lives around this mountain, providing rich volcanic soils for agriculture and an endless source of pure spring waters.

Climbing Kilimanjaro
One of the most amazing aspects of the mountain in the present day is the accessibility of its peak to climbers with no mountain climbing equipment or real previous experience of scaling such heights.

Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain that regular tourists can climb, although it remains a considerable feat of human endurance! The breathable oxygen at the top is less than half the amount than is common at sea level, and climbers cover at least eighty kilometres on no thing but their own two feet over the five days it takes to reach the top and return.

Preserving the Mountain
The number of climbers has escalated to over a thousand a year during the last century, quite a development since Hans Meyer made history as the first European to scale the highest point of Kilimanjaro in 1889. The increasing numbers each year have made it necessary for the National Park to insist that all climbs are pre-booked, and passes are no longer issued at the last minute at the park gate.

Overall Fitness Required
Although it is possible to simply trek a route to the pinnacle of Kibo without relying on professional climbing equipment, it remains a hard and serious endeavour that requires a level of physical fitness, stamina and a realistic awareness of the potentially damaging effects of high altitudes. Many tour operators request that clients consult a doctor before attempting to scale the mountain, and have a physical check-up for overall fitness.

Phases of the Climb;

First Stage,Tropical Forest
With most of the old lowland forest now cultivated and settled, the first experience of the mountain environment begins with the dense vegetation of tropical montane forest between 1850m and around 2800m. Cloud condensation mainly gathers around the forest, so this area is usually damp or drenched with rainfall, creating an intriguing mass of plant life and running rivers between endemic tree species. The area of heath just beyond the tree line also enjoys a relatively misty and damp environment as cloud clings around the density of trees. This is covered with heather and shrubs such as Erica Arborea and Stoebe Kilimandsharica, and a number of dramatic looking Proteas.

Open Moorland
From around 3,200m a wide expanse of moorland extends beyond the heath and the cloud line, so that here the skies are generally clear, making the sunshine intense during the days and the nights cool and clear. The climbing incline remains gentle, but thinning oxygen provides less fuel to energise the muscles and can dramatically slow the pace of walking. Hard y endemic species of Giant Groundsels (Senecio) and Lobelia (Deckenii) towering up to 4m high thrive in this moorland zone and give the landscape a strangely primeval atmosphere.

Alpine Desert, Sparse Vegetation
Even higher, beyond 4,000m, this sensation intensifies as the landscape develops into a more bizarre alpine desert, with sandy loose earth and intense weather conditions and temperature fluctuations so dramatic that barely any plant species survive other than everlasting flowers, mosses and lichens. Only the odd lichen survives beyond 5000m, after Kibo Huts and beyond the Saddle, where the landscape is predominantly rock and ice fields. Here, climbers experience the final steep push to the summit.

Saddle to Summit
The easterly routes, Marangu, Mweka, Loitokitok and Rongai all converge west of the saddle near Gillmans Point, between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. Kibos crater is roughly circular with an inner cone extending to 5,800m, (100m lower than the summit at Uhuru Peak). At the centre an inner crater with walls between 12 and 20 m high contains another concentric minor cone, the centre of which falls away into the 360m span of the ash pit. This is the 120 meter deep central core of the volcano, and casts sulphurous boiling smoke from its depths despite the frozen, snowy outskirts.

Becoming one of the Regulars is not a flight of fancy and will require you to work hard in more ways than you can imagine.
You will promise yourself and others a number of things by becoming one of the Regulars.


Although a more complete list had been developed into what is called (the Regulars 11 Commandments) quick example of what is expected of each person on the Regulars is:
You will be willing to make many sacrifices.
You must be willing to fund raise.
You must be willing to raise awareness.
You must be willing to pay your own way for all expenses.
You must be willing to share your experiences with others.
You must be willing to promote the need for not one, but BOTH Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association AND Michael J. Fox Foundation – Team Fox.
Although the following is not a requirement it is usually best of your family has been impacted by Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s so that you have seen the devastation first hand and can tell others through your own experiences with these diseases.

So guys, with all that said if you want to do this let me know as soon as possible.
Only those who are more than interested need reply to this post.
I need people who are 100% serious about pushing themselves through a very successful climbing, awareness and fund raising season in 2009.
Finding these cures is a very emotional, phys ically demanding, and mentally challenging labor of love. In order to be in the saddle, you’ve got to be up for one hell of a ride.

World up,
Enzo
The Regulars
10 Mountains – 10 Years (A Quest for the Cure)

www.myspace.com/10mountains10years

http://10mountains10years.blogspot.com/

http://www.youtube.com/theFotographer

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

The Different Ones - All Roads Lead To A Cure

Different Ones - All Roads Lead To A CureShare
Today at 8:26am | Edit Note | Delete
My plan: Write this book

The title: The Different Ones - All Roads Lead To A Cure

Dedicated to: My father-in-law, Fernando Colon, who lost his battle to Alzheimer's Disease and those who are fighting these battles and those who love and care for them

2nd. Dedication to: My Mom - "All I Am Or Hope To Be I Owe To My Angel Mother"

My Goal: To summit one day

All proceeds will go to The Alzheimer's Association and the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Disease

My request: To not be forgotten

http:www.myspace.com/10mountains10years


"Together Is One"

How does one decide at 50 years of age to climb a mountain? Why, with absolutely no experience, would I decide this? What roads led me to this decision? What influenced me along the way? Some say my decision was thoughtless. Meaning, I have young children and am putting my life at risk and maybe leaving them motherless. Or, it's my age and I'm just going through a mid-life crisis. That was one of the most over used statements I ever heard. It was even getting old. But none of the above were correct. All roads led me to my decision. I followed this path all my life. Searching for meaning and purpose. Wanting to full fill a need in side to make a difference. Always grabbing at straws and hoping somehow, someone would find me and place me with them in the same capacity as how I was feeling. I never thought it would come in the form of climbing mountains but it did. The plan behind all this is compelling. The man behind the plan is inspiring. His reasons, his vision. It drew me in and I wanted to become part of it. It wasn't a decision I made right away. I knew I could be part of this team no matter what. But to full fill the Trail Called Hope dream meant for me to step outside my comfort zone and just do it. It hit me one day that I wanted this. Even with my own physical limitations I knew I could at least train and try for this. I could never convince you to do this. It is a personal choice. One that comes from deep within. Especially if you never did anything like this before. It's a mind set, a huge goal, and a challenge. I went for it and said yes and thus began my journey.

For one year I placed myself in the boots of a climber and the mind of an adventurer. But my heart was always with the why of the journey. The 10 mountains 10 year project is about drawing awareness and raising funds for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Both of which have affected my family and my friends. The caregiver in me has become the advocate. The advocate has become altruistic. The desire grows each passing day upon each waking moment. The training becomes intense and the body hurts. But you persist no matter how you feel. My children come into play. They see how hard I am working and I tell them to understand more why I am doing this. To look at me and be proud of me. To support me so I can secure a better future for them free from diseases. To help in this search for cures and be able to say I played a part in it has become my reality and my goal in life. My commitment to everyone I've befriended along the way as well as those already in my life.

I have always believed your destiny eventually finds you. God has already mapped out mine. The strength that grows each day, which I believe with all of my heart comes from my mother, are my reasons for continuing on. It doesn't stop after one mountain. It pushes you to the next one. You remain on the same roads that led you here. You grow closer inside to the reasons you are doing this. Before you know it you are the reason. You begin to convince others of the intensity and probabilities of this project. You see it is not all about the mountain. You draw people in not only with your voice but with your desire to create a better way. A better way for there children, there grandchildren, themselves, there parents.

I have a voice. A voice that I want heard. Whether it be in the form of a short speech, an interview, a newspaper article, a book; I am ready to be heard. I am ready……….

Once again my training will begin. My mindset will shift. My children will come into play. My life will be forever changed.
My story continues. Or should I say another chapter will be written. I cannot predict the future. I cannot say if I will ever summit a mountain. But the one thing I believe more than anything is that cures will be found. The more voices that are heard and the more that climb on board in some capacity, brings us that much closer to what we all want. And that is cures.

I believe in Enzo's project. I believe in Enzo and our team. I believe in "Together is One". There isn't anything in this life that isn't achievable. Strength within pulls you up and makes things happen. Focusing on your strength is important, even on days when you feel you have none. Being there for someone that needs you more then your own needs. Placing yourself behind them so you can catch them if they fall. It's all about the abundance of love in your heart. It can be your reason. Whatever you decide, always be mindful of those around you. There are chances they could become affected somehow by a disease. Remember your reasons. Always keep moving forward with the plan. Never loose sight of doing something good. It is what will make the difference in someone's life.

We can all make a difference and shout from a mountain top, up at a podium, out a window. I write because I am inspired. Inspired by the many out there who struggle with these diseases. The many who care for them. I hope you read this and become inspired too.

Like Enzo says, "There should be no stone left unturned". Help those who cannot help themselves. Bring hope to those who feel all hope is lost. One voice, a thousand voices. Make it happen.

Strong Feather aka Eileen


Currently listening :
Who We Are
By Lifehouse
Release date: 2007-06-19

Thursday, August 21, 2008

A Trail Called Hope - III - Enzo's video clips

Hey guys, How long has it really been since you've heard from me, I mean really? A long time huh? There's no one more sorry then me. But, guess what? I'm pulling the wings up again. I know a lot of you have been asking for a Mount Hood update, which Eileen has probably filled you in on. I'm sure she has some good stuff for you in her blogs. For now, I have a new video for you, which I shot on my home camera. Mostly footage and photos from "the Regulars" A Trail Called Hope - III - Mount Hood (July 2008). I also have a few photos taken at the Parkinson's Unity Walk - NYC 2008. I've set it to a song called "Storm" from Lifehouse. I hope you like it. Just in case you can't see the video here in the blog you can also find it and others on my YouTube page. Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/theFotographer A quick summary for you is...the Regulars have officially checked off another mountain as a success!!!!!!!! For me though, personally the entire time spent out in Portland was not physically hard, but rather an emotional and mental battle. There was dark weather, lightning, thunder, and high winds. There was pleanty internal termoil and drama, which is not may favorite thing to deal with. There was this side, and there was that side, and I'm learning that controlling a team is not always easy. Also, my brother Dan and nephew Tyler (who had made this their first mountain climb) had to leave early, because there was a medical emergency in the family back in New York. Ultimately that emergency lead to a relative passing away. So much went wrong that sometimes it hurts just to look back at it. But, it was just that which has helped me begin to pull my wings back up a few days ago. Although I had been avoiding it, I finally picked up my camera and started looking through the video clips, and there was so much sparkle and life inbetween all the heavy moments that I missed while I was out there. So, now has begun a time to reflect on all the mis-steps and all the giant leaps we made on Mount Hood. Now I can start to learn from it all. Now I can move ahead with my team with all engines at full throttle heading for Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa) in 2009. To my team...well done! To all of you who have made donations toward research through our donation links for the Alzheimer's Association & the Michael J. Fox Foundation - Team Fox pages...I am honored to have had your support. For all those who have never made a donation, it's not too late. Remember that funding is the life blood of all research. Nothing can be done without it. To Kilimanjaro, we've got our eyes set on you. The clock is ticking and we're on our way. Another one down...World up! Enzo

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Tomb Raider on Mont Blanc

Ciao guys,

Just to let you all know…our team mate Tomb Raider was on Mont Blanc this morning.
I got a message on my answering machine which I didn’t check until later, but when I did it was such a surprise.

It was all chopped up sounding with wind blowing in the background, and a really breathy panting voice saying – “Hey Enzo, this is Tomb Raiser guess where I’m calling you from. I’m at the white lady today. Can you hear me???? This is Tomb Raider calling from the top of Mont Blanc!”

How fantastic is that????????!! !!!!!!!
I don’t know who she was climbing with…maybe Brett was with her, because I know he went to visit her in Hungary the other week. I’m sure she (or he) will fill us all in when she gets home to Budapest.

The most amazing thing about this is persistence.
When we were all there as a team to climb Mont Blanc she was the only one who never made it out of the valley onto the mountain because she hurt her back on the way in. In actuality no one made it to the summit that year at all. At the time she also had a load of rock climbing experience but no mountaineering real experience. This past winter she stepped up her game and learned as much about mountaineering as possible, and this morning she is now the first person on our team to climb to the top of Mont Blanc!

It reminds me in a way of Eric and his trip to Kilimanjaro a few weeks ago. If he was feeling anything like me (flying home from Mount Hood) he was probably a little down over not personally making it to the top of Mount Hood in July. It’s really such a bad feeling. It’s like having a stone in the pit of your stomach because you had just invested so much time, money and effort to go to this place and climb it only to held off for reasons which are in many cases beyond your control. But getting back to Eric he went on to Africa to climb Kilimanjaro. He pushed his way through the altitude, through feeling sick along the way and on to the summit of Kilimanjaro – the highest mountain in continental Africa. The photo he had taken on the summit showed a small yellow flag just to the right of his knee which read…Persist.

That basically sums it all up for us.
It sums it all up for research and science too.
It’s the backbone of why our project is20the epic it is.

We (the Regulars) will all persist in our efforts to reach our goals, to reach these summits, to raise awareness and to raise the funds the world needs for research. All because we believe that we will in some large or small way play a part in conquering Alzheimer’s Disease & Parkinson’s Disease.

With that being said……….Hell yeah! Great job Eric!
&
Great job Adrienn (AKA Tomb Raider) and Brett too if you were there!


World up,
Enzo

PS – Sorry Adrienn, I was kicking myself in the ass for not being awake to get the call!

PPS – I went to Tomb Raiders myspace page this morning after I got the call and saw she posted a video from a band called Sigur Ros. They are from Iceland so you won’t understand what they’re saying….but you can read into it any way you like. Some of you might remember this band from the Regulars (Ecuador) video I made. The song on the video she had posted is different but I want you to check it out.
In the typical very deep and emotional sounding style they play the music really pulls your heart strings and will make you just as happy as you can be sad in watching the video.
What I liked the most about the video on Adrienn’s page was this thought… It reminded me of a very young team of us (the Regulars) as kids. The world stretched out before us and we’re marching around, dreaming big, climbing our mountains and then in the end learning that if you just “believe” in yourselves, then anything is possible.

It was deep.
I was moved.

You can see the video on her myspace page or click this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doc1eqstMQQ



Another one down...world up!

Thursday, July 24, 2008

KrazyGeorgeHenderson

This here is an excerpt from a book you might know, D. Seidman's HOW. I'm including this piece here to inspire you my team: when I read about Krazy George Henderson just now and how he 'invented' the Wave, I couldn't help but think of how excellent a symbol this story is for Captain Enzo and the Regulars' endeavor. Seeing how the Wave works I'm positive that the 10mountains10years project is doomed to success!
(You can find the complete Prologue - which is where these passages come from - here.)

"The Wave is an extraordinary act. All those people, spread out over a vast stadium, with limited ability to connect or communicate, somehow come together in a giant cooperative act inspired by a common goal: to help the home team win. It defies language and culture, occurring with regularity throughout the world at Tower of Babel events as diverse as the Olympics and international soccer games[...] It transverses gender, income, and societal status. It is a pure expression of collective passion released.

What does it take to start a Wave?

If you consider the Wave as a process of human endeavor, you realize immediately that anyone can start one—an enthusiastic soccer mom, four drunken guys with jellyroll bellies and their bare chests painted Oakland green, or eight adolescents who idolize the team's star player. You don't have to be the owner of the stadium, the richest or most powerful person there, or even a paid professional like Krazy George. No one takes out their business card and says, "My title is the biggest; let the Wave start with me." Anyone can start a Wave; it is a truly democratic act.

So, how do you do it?

First, you need people's attention. Starting a Wave requires an act of leadership, so you must be willing to stand up and lead. You have to stand up, communicate your idea, and inspire others to help you achieve it. But how? Krazy George uses his drum, but the security guard at the metal detectors made you leave yours in the car. You could, perhaps, turn to the guy next to you and say, "Hey, here's 20 bucks—let's stand up." He might go along, but really, unless you are Bill Gates you will probably run out of money before you get all 60,000 fans to buy into your plan[...]
To create a great and powerful Wave, one that can make a difference to your team, you need enthusiastic participation[...]

Clearly, how you communicate your vision—how you connect with those around you—directly affects the outcome. The essence of a Wave, what makes it such a forceful expression of human desire, is that it is powered by a common passion to help the home team win. That value lives larger than any individual's actions and unites all the fans in the stadium. No one followed Krazy George's idea because they thought it was about George; a Wave is leadership, but the most important thing about a Wave is that you forget where it started—Section 32? 64? 132? The fans followed because he got everybody enlisted, and when you get everybody enlisted, it doesn't matter where your Wave starts. It just goes.

And no one followed Krazy George's idea because people booed (that was just a good-natured way of getting attention in a big stadium). They followed because they liked what he stood for and the way he banged his drum for it. To start one, then, you need to reach out to those around you, to share your vision with them, to enlist them in a common purpose. You must lead this Wave not by wielding formal authority, punitive power, or the threat of a small thermonuclear device under the stands, but with a touch of charisma. To get them to join you, you must be earnest and transparent, hold nothing back, and earn their trust. "Hey!" you might yell, charged with passion and commitment, filled with the unbridled emotion that you want to uncork in others. "I've got this idea! If we all stand up, wave our arms, and yell, I think it might help us win!" Who doesn't want to win?

I like the Wave as metaphor because it is about what a diverse group of people can accomplish when united by a common vision. It illustrates the power that moves through a group of people when they perform at their best, their most unbridled and passionate."

Hugs to all,
TR

Thank You.......the journey continues

Thank You.......the journey continues



It has been almost three weeks since I returned From Oregon with my team "The Regulars". I decided to lay low at home for awhile to absorb the experience I had just come back from. I have not trained, walked, done karate, or even diet. Wow, a little odd for me but it felt good doing this. When I posted my Blog "When the Mountain talks to You" I was totally overwhelmed by the responses from everybody, the messages sent via Myspace, email. I still sit in awe at the impact it has made on my life and how it has changed me. How very grateful I am to have all of you in my life supporting me and encouraging me. How for the split second I was disappointed in myself I was reassured there was nothing to be disappointed at. I know that, but human nature sometimes rears its ugly head and makes you feel bad.

This is only one phase of the 10mountains 10years project. It is an ongoing project and one that everyone can get involved in. Climbing mountains may not be for everybody but the statement it is making is. The awareness and the funds that will be drawn in from our documentary is monumental. The uniqueness of this project is that there is no time limit. It is ongoing. The web pages to donate never go away. The chance to become part of a Street Team is always readily available. The possibilities to help out are there.

Go to our webpage and donate. Go to Enzo's page and get to know him and what this project is all about. Repost to get others involved. Every one counts in our search for the cures. For every person that donates, that is one step closer to aide in the research. Become involed, become a part of.

Our web pages are as follows:

http://www.theregulars.org TO DONATE AND BECOME PART OF THE FILM

http://www.myspace.com/10mountains10years TEAM CAPTAIN ENZO SIMONE

http://www.10mountains10years.blogspot.com GET TO KNOW OUR TEAM AND WHAT THEY ARE UP TO

http://www.cafepress.com/theregulars TO PURCHASE OUR TSHIRTS, HATS...ETC


As one journey ends another one begins.........I will go with them again. I will continue this fight to end these diseases. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your beautiful comments, your support, your friendships and your own efforts in making a difference.

Another One Down

World Up,
Eileen aka Strong Feather

Thursday, July 17, 2008

beautiful baby boy has Alzheimer's

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/11_03/jodiejoshDM2311_468x381.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-496098/My-beautiful-baby-boy-Alzheimers.html&h=381&w=468&sz=41&hl=en&start=45&um=1&tbnid=WJJRnqGN6rpDOM:&tbnh=104&tbnw=128&prev=/images%3Fq%3DWHO%2527S%2BMOTHER%2BHAS%2BALZHEIMER%2527S%26start%3D40%26ndsp%3D20%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26sa%3DN

My beautiful baby boy has Alzheimer's
By AMANDA CABLE
Last updated at 23:45 24 November 2007
Last week, Joshua Cullip said "Mummy" for the first time. It was a breathtaking moment - and his mother's face lights up at the memory.

She says: "He was sitting in the high chair and clearly wanted more food. I was taking my time, and he started banging his plate - then he suddenly shouted 'Mummy' really loudly.
"It was as if someone had reached in and grabbed hold of my heart. It just physically lurched, and I still haven't got over the thrill of hearing him say my name."
Bitter blow: Joshua with his mother Jodie who is facing up to a difficult future
With that, as if on cue, Joshua says "Mama" again, and explodes into peals of laughter.
Like every first-time mother, Jodie greets each milestone with undisguised joy.
But each new achievement, each cause of celebration, is as agonising as it is gleeful. Because this sweet blonde 13-month-old baby with beseeching blue eyes and a ready smile is suffering from Alzheimer's.
Yes you did hear correctly - Alzheimer's. At some point before his fifth birthday dementia caused by the genetic disease Niemann-Pick C will set in, and this small boy will gradually forget every word he has learned.
It is perhaps one of the cruellest tricks of nature that within a couple of years, the child who now calls so happily for his Mummy will be too senile even to know who she is.
Jodie says: "It's as if everything Joshua says and does will slowly be taken away from us.
"He looks at me with such love, I can't imagine what it will be like for him not even to know me. To look at me in real confusion, with a stranger's eyes.
"He makes me so proud every day. He's just learned to do the rhyme Round And Round The Garden with his chubby little finger going around his palm, and he's so pleased with himself.
"But even then, I think: 'He won't remember this rhyme one day.' It's just another fresh pain."
At the age of 21, Jodie is an extraordinary young woman who remains incredibly calm and composed. When Joshua gleefully puts his plastic toys down the loo and empties out the shampoo, she remonstrates with him, but secretly delights in his mischief.
She says: "He's a little monster. I love to say that because it is just a little boy who gets into mischief. I just want him to stay a normal little boy for as long as possible."
Jodie is currently living apart from Joshua's father Callum, also 21. The stress, she admits, has been hard for the childhood sweethearts who have been together for five years.
She never planned to become a mother so young, but now, despite her own ambitions, she is devoting herself to caring for Joshua.
The news that she was pregnant came as a complete shock. Jodie says: "I planned to wait for a few years before settling down and having a baby.
"I was working in a children's shop and helping to run children's parties when I went to the local family planning clinic for my regular contraceptive injections.
"They do a pregnancy test as a matter of course, but this time the lady's face changed. She said: 'I wasn't expecting this - you are pregnant.' I was utterly stunned.
"I went straight to my niece's birthday party, and sat watching all the little children playing. I couldn't believe I was pregnant. Callum was shocked when I told him but we both decided we had always wanted a family.
"We were just starting earlier than we had planned."
The devoted young couple started to prepare for their baby - decorating their immaculate two-bedroom home in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire. But the pregnancy was difficult.
At six months, Jodie went into premature labour, which doctors were able to stop with drugs. During a scan at 33 weeks, Jodie discovered she was expecting a boy.
She says: "I had felt so sure the baby was going to be a boy, and I was thrilled. I knew immediately that I wanted to call him Joshua, and Callum chose his middle name, John.
"I had such wonderful plans for him before he was even born. I used to daydream, and wonder what he would be when he grew up."
At 35 weeks, Jodie's waters broke suddenly and she was rushed into theatre for an emergency Caesarean while her agonised partner waited outside.
"Joshua weighed 5lb 7oz," she says, "but I only saw him for a few seconds, because he was freezing cold and had problems breathing and they needed to get him to the special care unit.
"I could hardly see him under the blankets, and when they took him away it was awful, as if a piece of me had been amputated."
Within hours, Jodie's own condition had deteriorated. Kidney complications during her pregnancy returned, and she was treated in a separate unit, unable to see her child.
The following morning, a paediatrician arrived with the news that Joshua was jaundiced and unable to take milk. He had to be transferred to a specialist baby unit in Oxford, 40 miles away.
"The next two weeks were a total misery," says Jodie. "I was put in my own room, but I could hear all the other babies and their mothers on the ward.
"Callum would go and visit Joshua at the baby unit, then come back and tell me about him, and I felt so jealous. I started to wonder if I would ever bond with this baby I had never seen.
"Finally, after two weeks I discharged myself, I had to see him so badly. I could hardly walk, but I insisted Callum drove me to be with our son.
"I staggered into the special care unit and there he was, the smallest but most perfect baby I had ever seen.
"I just needed to hold him in my arms. Incredibly, almost as soon as I did, Joshua started to thrive. Within hours, he started to feed. His bowel movements became normal and his temperature settled.
"It was as if he knew Mummy had come for him, as if I had somehow willed him to get better."
After two weeks, Joshua was declared well enough to go home. Jodie says: "The doctors said they had to keep an eye on his jaundice levels, but I honestly didn't think jaundice was dangerous.
"I was just thrilled he was coming home and we were going to start our new life as a little family at last."
But after a few weeks, fresh blood tests revealed that Joshua's levels of bilirubin - the pigment which causes jaundice - were high, and he had to be referred to a liver specialist in London.
"As soon as I heard the words 'liver specialist', I started to panic," says Jodie, "but I told myself that the doctors probably just wanted to be safe.
"Joshua had slightly yellow eyes, but he seemed so healthy. He smiled at exactly the right time, and started gurgling and trying to talk to me with his own baby language.
"I couldn't believe that a baby who seemed so bright and so perfect could have something seriously wrong with him."

Baby book: Like other first-time mothers, Jodie meticulously records Joshua's progress
The family were sent to London's famous King's College Hospital, but further tests showed no liver disease. Clearly baffled, doctors asked Jodie and Callum if there was any family history of serious illness or infant death.
Jodie says: "My mother reminded me that my cousin's daughter Maddie had died at three months' old the previous year. We weren't close, I had never met the poor baby, but Mum decided to check the details.
"When she rang back, she said the baby had suffered from a very rare genetic condition called Niemann-Pick C - a form of dementia known as children's Alzheimer's.
"I told the specialist, and she said: 'It's very unlikely, because it isn't hereditary and I've never known two babies from one family suffer from this condition. But it is worth testing Joshua so that we can rule it out.'
"The tests themselves were horrific. Joshua had to have a bone marrow biopsy, a liver biopsy and a skin biopsy at the same time. I wasn't allowed to be with him, I just stood outside in the hallway, listening to his screams and crying my eyes out."
A week later, Jodie received a call from the specialist. She says: "The doctor just said that the tests had come back, and unfortunately they did show that Joshua probably had Neimann-Pick C. The final result, from the skin biopsy, would confirm if this was the case.
"I put the phone down and went straight onto the internet because I didn't have a clue what this condition was. I was absolutely devastated with what I saw.
"I learned that Niemann-Pick C is caused when both parents carry a faulty gene. It affects just one in 150,000 babies and causes harmful build-ups of fatty substances known as lipids in the liver, spleen, bone marrow and brain.
"Callum, myself and our parents all read up about this awful condition but somehow I managed to convince myself that the final skin biopsy would show that Joshua was clear.
"He was a healthy, happy, five-month-old baby who played and gurgled at my feet. I couldn't believe such a beautiful boy had such an evil disease."
Jodie and Callum are sheltered by their close-knit families, and when the young couple travelled to London for the final verdict in March this year, Callum's parents came with them for support.
"We arrived at Evelina Children's Hospital and we all walked in to meet the specialist," says Jodie. "I put Joshua onto the floor and I watched him roll around, playing. Then the specialist confirmed that Joshua had Neimann-Pick C.
"I remember him saying that children like Joshua, who had an enlarged liver and spleen usually pass away by the age of five from liver failure.
"There are some children who survive into early adulthood, but we should prepare ourselves for the worst."
The news was greeted with utter silence. Jodie says: "Nobody could talk. To be honest, I was devoid of any emotion. I didn't even cry, it just didn't feel real.
"I picked Joshua up and we left the hospital and went on a boat trip. It was totally surreal, because Joshua was laughing at the other boats and pointing, and none of us even mentioned the doctor or this awful prognosis.
"I couldn't even think about it. I just wanted to give Joshua a nice day out. It didn't seem fair to be talking about his death when he was having such a lovely time watching the boats.
"Even when I got home that night, I didn't cry. Reality didn't actually sink in for another few weeks. Then one day, I was reading an article in a local newspaper, and it talked about another little child who has Niemann-Pick C.
"It said the condition was known as children's Alzheimer's, because it causes progressive senile dementia, like the type seen in elderly people.
"It was as if my whole world came crashing down, because with the word Alzheimer's, the full implication of Joshua's condition, and his future, became clear.
"I had never known anyone with Alzheimer's but before my pregnancy I had happened to watch a storyline on Coronation Street which showed one of the main characters, Mike Baldwin, suffering from the condition.
"The irony was that I never usually watch soaps, but the sight of this character who kept forgetting things had been so disturbing that I had followed the whole story, watching the gradual disintegration of his mind.
"Now, the image of that shambling and confused man haunted me. Because I realised this is what would happen to Joshua.
"Everything that he learned would be forgotten. Everything he discovered about the world around him would be lost. Every toy that he loved would one day be discarded.
"The thought that eventually he wouldn't even recognise his beloved Grandad was unbearable."
With this, Jodie pauses and takes a painful gulp. "And then I remember that one day he won't even know me."
Joshua's condition is untreatable. A liver transplant is not an option because fatty deposits would attack any new organ. Jodie's beloved baby son is effectively a ticking time bomb.
At some point he will become clumsy, and start to tumble and fall. He will begin to forget where he has put his toys. Words will start to fail him, and he will have difficulty remembering the faces of those who love him.
Finally, he will lose the power of speech and the power to swallow. Jodie fights back tears as she says: "He loves his food so much. Whatever I cook for him, he really enjoys and that is what hurts me the most. The thought that he won't actually be able to swallow or taste the food he loves."
At the age of 21, where the only choices many girls make are where to go out on a Saturday night, Jodie is facing some of the most painful decisions any mother can make, and she does so with a maturity which belies her years.
"I don't want Joshua's life to be prolonged by painful treatment," she says. "I want him to remain happy and comfortable for as long as possible.
"It is hard to think about his death when he is so happy and doing so well. But I force myself to think about the future, for his sake. I want to plan it, so I don't fall apart when it happens.
"I've decided that when he has gone, I want to find a new career, a new chance to make the best of my life.
"I want Joshua to be proud of me, and I want to be the best mum he could ever hope for - even if he is in Heaven.
"I left school at 17 with just five GCSEs. Perhaps I'll go to college and study, maybe find a career which helps sick children. I just know I can't afford to go downhill and waste this precious chance.
"In the meantime, I just delight in everything Joshua does. If he's naughty, I pretend I'm cross but in truth I'm just thrilled that he has this incredible cheeky spirit.
"I video him all the time and then I watch the tapes back so I can savour every moment and enjoy every new little thing he does, time and time again."
Jodie has a baby book, where like many other first-time mothers, she meticulously records Joshua's progress.
There, her neat handwriting recalls, how he first crawled at ten months, pulled himself up to stand at nearly a year.
And last week, she recalls shakily, he said "Mummy" for the very first time. Up until then, he called her Jojo.
She smiles with pride and says: "His little voice is the sweetest sound I have ever heard."
And when it is gone, when Joshua can no longer say Mummy or plant wet kisses on her cheek, it is a memory she will hang on to for ever.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

When the mountain talks to You

When the mountain talks to You.....

When the mountain talks to you

The ever changing progression of the mountain is like the ever changing progression of these diseases. Just when you think you are going to reach the summit, lightening strikes and sends you back down. Just when a breakthrough has been made in the understanding of a disease, lightening strikes and sends researchers back to the drawing board. A medication stops working. A medication won’t kick in. A beautiful mind is lost. A body is broken. We climb to reach the summit but we don’t always. But, we keep climbing, keep pushing to reach the next one. Base camp, high camp, the summit. Snow boots, crampons, ice axes, poles, goggles, backpacks, gloves, harness, rope team…..all needed to reach the top. Funding, awareness, advocates, caregivers, scientists, government approval, those who battle these diseases, foundations, Philanthropist’s, volunteers, street teams, walkers, climbers, bikers, hikers…..all needed to reach the top of this never ending search for the cures.
I reached an altitude of comfort on the mountain. A moment of clarity and a moment of reality. I trained hard in snow camp at base camp. I climbed up a straight incline of snow and ice with my rope team that consisted of Phil, our guide, Cy and Enzo. I conquered the side step, toes first, cross over step, duck walk. I walked without my crampons, with my crampons, without my ice axe, with my ice axe. I slid and fell several times. I stared up at the summit and prayed and thought about all of you. I carried letters and my well wishes blog that I printed out. I kept you all close. When I fell face first in the snow I picked my self back up. When I got snow and ice kicked in my face, down my coat, I just wiped it off, shook it out and kept moving. Five hours of training. My team supported me, cheered me on, sang to me “Come on Eileen”.
I may not have made it to the top this time. Not even to high camp, but I will never stop trying on some level to help others to do so. To keep giving them hope in a project that resonates change. A project that resonates progression. That speaks to millions and makes millions listen.
Disappointment in myself did not occur. It was a tough decision to make but the mountain talked and I listened. If others are disappointed in me and just don’t understand why, that is there prerogative. I stepped out of my comfort level, I trained hard, I developed a mind set to achieve this. Altitude sickness, vertigo, no sleep that night, and yes, fear made my mental state crash. It was best for the team that I didn’t continue. I stayed behind and sat in a car in front of the mountain for a full day and night and watched the progression of the mountain change. The summit disappearing in the clouds. The sunset reflecting the side of the mountain. The skiers making there way down. The water draining at the base of the mountain from melting snow. Searching for my team through my lens hoping I would see them. Praying for there safety. Finally falling asleep in the back seat of the car and waking up at 5 A.M. to the mountain gone. Thunder, lightening and rain all around me. Fear gripped my heart for my team. Were they still up there? The guides told us if it begins to lightening, we go down.
I went to the ski lodge. The doors were locked. I went to the hotel. The doors were locked. I drove to the upper parking lot and sat and waited. The weather made the mountain disappear. Until the storm passed it was like looking at just a parking lot at the base. And then they woke up. They were all around me. Parked on either side of me and I didn’t even realize it. They were evacuated at 1 A.M. Safe to the bottom but let me sleep. The dynamics of this team. Unquestionably the greatest. We united, happy to see one another. The summit still no where in site due to the storm. But we were all safe. Reunited, we moved past the moment and began the next phase.
Drawing awareness, telling our stories, sharing with the world. Believing in each other, why we do this, and helping each other through the disappointment of not summiting. Mapping out the next move, the next mountain, the next fundraiser, the next time we will all be together. Not a second, not a minute, hour, day, week, will ever be a waste to us. One hundred conversations, tears, laughter, togetherness for seven days. We are determined, driven and passionate.
Let there be no mistake; I chose not to go ahead with my team. They wanted me to try. They were all willing to help me get there. The guides would accommodate me. But my intuition overruled. The mountain stared down at me and told me no. I didn’t want anyone to put themselves out for me. They needed to climb with there own safety in mind. First and foremost, not to summit but to reach the bottom safely. I would have compromised this. It was not about reaching the top, it was about and still is, drawing awareness, raising funds.
We all have our mountains to conquer. Our fears to overcome. Our doubts and hopes and dreams to be understood. Passion drives us….love guides us.
The more we all unite, step up, get involved, the better the chances of helping our friends, our mom and dad, our sister or brother, our children, to have a better chance. And if those above battle these diseases, then a better chance at living a productive life. A chance to see it all through. I will join them again. Even if it is just at base camp. I won’t give up.

Together is One
World Up,
Strong Feather aka Eileen

Friday, June 27, 2008

मेसेज फ्रॉम Brett

Hi all,
Sorry for the delay since I last wrote.

As you may know, I have taken some time off work, and I am travelling around South America. The last 2 months especially have been great preperation, for most of that time I have been above 3,000 meters (10,000 feet). Most of my way through Bolivia, then living in Cusco for one month. To make sure I am in good form I did the Inca Trail, and then the hardest hike in Peru in the Cordillera Huaysh huaysh. Some of the hike included several passes over 5,000 meters (above the height of Mount Hood) and one night sleeping about 4,700 meters.

So, I am confident to say, that the altitude should not be a problem, and that I have done all I can fitness wise. Really, the rest is not up to me, the things we cannot control include ilness and weather.

I am looking forward to the challenge of helping the Regulars to another summit, and I hope you are all able to support our causes.

Speak to you after the climb!
Brett

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Special Thanks Film Credits

Hi all,

As many of you know, we began production on the documentary feature film series, "10 Mountains 10 Years", about our international team of mountain climbers to summit 10 of the world's greatest peaks to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease. We will be filming in 7 countries and 6 continents, from Mont Blanc to Mount Everest. The films will track the greatest advances and climbs happening in the medical community alongside the team's climbs, the realities of the day-to-day lives of those personally afflicted, and the caretakers who stand beside them.

We are working in collaboration with the Alzheimer's Association, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, and the Freddy Powers Foundation. This year, production crews are working together from New York, Oregon, Texas, Colorado, and California. We are currently in discussions with several celebrity narrators. International premiere and release in spring of 2009.

100% of the proceeds from the film will go directly to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's treatments and medical research to help bring us closer to a cure. The entire epic is being self-funded, through corporate sponsors, grants, donations, and the support of thousands of people around the world.

We are seeking your personal help to support the film by purchasing a "special thanks" credit. For $20, your name will appear in the end credits, making you a lasting part of this enormous endeavor. Such purchases will go toward production expenses to make this a reality.

Please visit: www.10mountains10years.com and click "Buy Film Credits".

This is a story of hope, the willingness of the human spirit to dream of something better, and the capacity of regular people from all walks of life to come together and change this world. The greatest view we will have from any summit is the view of who we become by doing it to help others.

30 million families worldwide are directly affected by Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.

Please forward this on to everyone you know and post on your myspace and facebook pages.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for taking the time to read about this project. Hope you will assist us. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Wishing you all the best!
Jen

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

The gloves are off....Focused, Strong, Ready!


The gloves are off....Focused, Strong, Ready!


This is it. My last Blog until I return from the mountain.



I have spent the better of one year preparing my mind and my body for this endeavor I am about to undertake. But I feel I have waited a lifetime for my chance to make a difference, to make a statement, to stand up for what I believe in. One year of my life that I will never forget. All of the friendships I have made along the way. Here on Myspace, out in my life, because of the person I have become. For those who do not know me personally, I am very shy, quiet and humble. I have broken out of my shell and have gained the strength needed to do this and the faith expected to accomplish it.



I still remain ever thankful and loyal to those who have supported me, followed my journey, encouraged me, made me there inspiration, there hero, there friend. What it has done for me is beyond any words I can find. But you know I am going to try and find them because I owe it all to you to hear.



You all have made me stronger, empowered, heroic, inspirational, spiritually stronger,a better friend, a better mother, a better person. Everytime I receive a message from you or a comment from you my heart soars. I have been placed here for a reason. A reason that I understand to be one of making a difference. Something I have wanted to a very long time.



You have all played a role in my strength and determination. To the ones who have been here from the very beginning.......Jim, my inspiration for it all, Ken, my hero, Enzo, my mentor, my friend, my captain.....Kaz, my dearest and sweetest friend, Peter, my spiritual mentor, Mary, my sister from another mother, my hero, my strength,Ideliza, my sexita mamita, Kristin, my soul twin, Sandra, my best friend, Denise, my best friend. For Bill, Sue, Les, Maria, Belle, Jim, Alan, Shawn, Gabrielle, Gaylund,Darien, Dave, the entire Parkinson's and Alzheimer's community that I am involved with. All the others I have befriended along the way. Everyone of you have my utmost respect and love for all you have been made to endure and all that you continue to do to help find the cures so desperatly needed.



I have layed my gloves down. My training is done. I will spend the next few days connecting with my family and friends, packing, last minute shopping, meditating, praying, getting my house in order. I ask again for your prayers for myself and my teammates as we set out on July 2nd and climb and document our journey to the summit until July 4th. And when I come down I will sign on to Myspace and let you know how we all did.



Thank you from the inner most part of my soul and my heart for being here for me. For allowing me into your lives and hearts. I do this for all of you. I will walk for you, with you. I will make it all about you. I will pray for all of you as I walk and climb towards the summit. As long as God gives me the strength to do this I will endure.



Adios Bendiga
Peace, Love and Light

World Up!
A Trail Called Hope III
Strong Feather aka Eileen

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

20


20 more days to.........

Kick it up another notch in training

Train at Black Belt Camp this weekend

Pull all my gear together

Check my checklist.....again

Put my ticket itinerary with my luggage

Contact Jen about the time she is arriving in Portland

Get my hair cut one more time

Call Enzo....again (sorry E, you know I will)

Talk to my family and friends before I leave

Print my Blog with all the well wishes

Meditate

Invest in some quiet time.....to reflect on this wonderful experience I have been handed
and all of the wonderful people I have met and am proud to call friends. Dear friends who I love. Who I will keep with me, very close, as I climb.

Get down on my knees with my boys before I leave and say a prayer that what I am about to embark on will make a difference. That I do this for them so in there lifetime they will not have to worry about these diseases.

And if you are reading this.........I pray too that these diseases will be cured. That I will have you all in my life forever. I do this for all of you. I will climb with my team but it is you I carry in my heart.

A Trail Called Hope III
July 2,3,4
Another one Down
World Up

Strong Feather

Monday, June 9, 2008

Thank You.

Hey guys Matt here, I know it’s been awhile. First off I just want to thank anyone who stopped by on First Friday to visit my setup and hear me talk about The Regulars. The night was not that bad. Not as many people as I had hoped for, but those who did show up were generally interested. Out of everyone who showed up I think I talked to each of them for several minutes. The tough part about this is that you never know if anyone you talk too actually makes donations. The only way you can tell is by watching the funding pages…and they don’t look like they’re moving that much. However I did meet a lady who was very adament on donating, so told me about her son’s band who might be interested in helping out on the movie. http://www.myspace.com/boyinthebubble
On another note, the best part about preparing for a big trip like this is all the shopping! I swear I feel like a girl. Every other day some new piece of gear comes in the mail for me. It’s like Christmas everyday! I’m almost good to go gear-wise.
On even another note, a good friend of mine Ned helped me out on Friday talking to people and just getting people interested in the team. He’s really interested in helping us out next year. I’ve known him for five years and he has some truly amazing stories. He’s from Bolivia and he’s done some missionary work down in Voodoo country Africa. He says he would like to visit Argentina next summer. Even though it’s a long way away just tell him what’s up. http://www.myspace.com/nedscape
So I was on the phone with Enzo this morning. He brought up the fact that it’s already been almost three years since I met him on myspace. So much has changed in that time. I’ve moved back home from New York. I’ve injured my knee twice. I’ve lost my Grandfather. I’ve become an acting major. I’ve worked with a Private Investigator, at a bookstore and with children with special needs. And I’ve finally found my faith. Now it’s finally time that I join The Regulars above the clouds. Three years later I’ll be on Mt. Hood with Enzo and the rest of the team.
I’ve never really spoken about this but after I came home from New York I had some real problems. My life was great in NY, and then I moved back in with my parents, lost a lot of freedom. After going to art school, community college really sucks. My faith back then wasn’t really strong at all. I gained twenty pounds, and for a college kid with no girlfriend that is never a good thing. I felt like my life was not going well. I found my self really depressed. Angry at the world. Angry at God. But mostly angry with myself for coming home and not knowing why. Then my grandfather got sick. Really sick. All faith was shattered. I knew I had to come home for some reason but I could never figure out why. Then my grandfather died. My whole family felt it. I felt it extra strong because I was trying to stay strong for my family. I didn’t even cry until five months later. But the things my family experienced was unbelievable. Straight out of Touched By Angel or something. You wouldn’t believe me if I told you. Sometimes I find it hard to believe. But through my grandfathers final days my strength and love and faith in God was restored. I prayed for a way to set me back on my path, to help me realize why I had come home. Three days later Enzo asked me to join the team on Mt. Hood.
Ever since then everything has become better than ever before. My life has become a conduit for others to find their way through the darkness. You have no idea how many people have thanked me because I tell them my story and my experiences. That is the greatest gift one can ever receive. To know that your life is worth something to others. Now that I have devoted myself to things far greater than myself I have been blessed with so much. Here I am. 21 days away from my trip to Mt. Hood. Everything is falling into place. Thank you guys. Thank you team. Thank you Enzo. Thank you Grandpa. Thank you God. I know that I can do better and I promise that I will.

~Matt

Thursday, June 5, 2008

TR






Hey E Luv,

Here's a little collection of some recent shots of me on real rock. One set is from Tardos in Hungary (a small crag w/short sport routes), the other from my beloved Höllental (=Valley of Hell in German) in Austria, bw RAX and Schneeberg mountains, in the Grossofen region of the valley. It was a nice 9 or 10 pitch 330m route called Himmelsleiter (Stairway/Ladder to Heaven in German) tackled in threesome; funny names, huh? From hell all the way to heaven? :o)

No chance to get back to you guys on the new webpage: I was offline at the beginning of the week and had food poisoning (my vague idea is that the milk I drank on Monday night was to blame). Is it possible to send things after it's been launched? I know I still owe you that story from my winter course, for example, if that's the kind of thing you had in mind. Or I'll only post it on blogpost.

Are you getting crazy w/all the arrangement for the Mt. Hood climb? I so keep my fingers crossed for you guys! It's but a few weeks away! I'm excited for you :o)

Ciao
TR

Monday, May 12, 2008

The Long and Winding Road

The Long and Winding Road.......no, not Paul McCartney at his finest

Just what lies ahead of me.
Not so much in my life but what I have left to do to prepare for my climb.
I loaded up my backpack and hit some trails yesterday. There were some inclines for me to go up and down. There was adjustments I had to make on my backpack to make it comfortable. There were water breaks and wiping sweat from my forehead times. There were even feelings of doubt racing throuigh my mind. But I had to stop and remind myself of how far I have come.

Just one year ago I could never have strapped that backpack on and even attempted this. So fast forward and there I was doing it.

My training is good. I train everyday. I rarely take a break. Guilt kills me, so in order not to feel that emotion I have chosen to train everyday. Maybe not everybody would have to do this but I have chosen to take this endeavor on as such because of my age and my limitations. Although I feel in very good shape and condition, I never put my guard down and expect to just do this without proper training. It has been a challenge but a challenge that has changed me and shaped me into a better person. If I could recommend anything in life to anyone it would have to be to exercise. It clears your head, it increases your stamina. In my case it has given me MUSCLES. Damn, the arms are bulging and the legs are tight. Still got that bubble butt though. Hey, can't have everything.

I kid around alot about the shape my body has taken on but in all honesty strength is the important thing here right now. I work constantly on my abs and lower back because of the load I will be carrying. I work till my legs feel like there going to fall off my body because of the unknown of climbing. I strengthen my arms with weights and machines with weights in order to accomplish everything on my own.

I have a great team. And I know they will all support me and help me if I falter on my way up. "And do you feel scared, I do, but I won't stop and falter" "Things can only get better" (Howard Jones)

So I am getting close to leaving for Oregon. I am anxious and excited. I'm asking for your prayers. No matter what happens "It's all Good"!!!!!! I leave June 30th. We begin to climb on July 2nd and will be reaching the summit on July 4th. When I reach the top I will reflect on all of my reasons and for all of the people I am there for. I will reach into the skies like I have said so many times before, to touch my angel mother and also to pray that God sees what we are doing and answers our prayers of finding these cures. I will have you all close to me and will remember every last one of you when I am there.

Please take a moment and stop by our website and donate. The dollar you donate could be the life you save.

www.theregulars.org

Also visit our Cafe Press store and purchase our merchandise.

www.cafepress.com/theregulars

And also visit our Blogspot and get to read about my other teammates.

www.10mountains10years.blogspot.com

World Up,
Strong Feather

Photobucket

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

VOS ES EGO

Note to myself:

MONS MONTIS ERAM CONSTRUCTUM PES LIBERUM.
SUUS FATUM EST ENITOR.

EGO TRIBUO MEUS PERMANEO SPIRITUS ATQUI EGO SUM ETIAM ACCERSITUS EGO.
SOL SOLIS MOS NON EXSISTO DONATUS LUX LUCIS.

World up,
Enzo

Meeting up with Michael J. Fox & Ken Glowienke













Sorry for the insanely long long long absence guys. There has been so much going on in the last few months. I’m so tired. I’ve just signed up for another Architecture Exam and need to fit studying into my schedule as well. I’ve even neglected my training for the last 6 weeks or so, but don’t worry I’ll get back in the saddle again ASAP to I can cannon ball it up Mount Hood with my team. I feel terrible to stay out of touch for so long. I really need to start digging back into my memory banks to write them down for you. But, before I dig back too far let me start with the past week.

It was pretty wild.

I really hate to miss work, because I feel like even being out one day puts me way too far behind. So being out on both Thursday & Friday this past week was really pushing my limits. I haven’t even told my bosses that I’ll be away for about 10 days in July while “the Regulars” climb Mount Hood and then shoot additional footage for the documentary.

So Wednesday night after work Jen (the Producer of the film documentary) drove up to Westchester County to begin a few days worth of background film footage on “the Regulars” team mates who live in and around my area. Ultimately it would be Eric, Dan Tyler & I. She & Eric met up with me in Mount Kisco for dinner which was pretty fun. I hadn’t seen Jen since we left Ecuador in September 2007. Eric on the other hand was lucky enough to fly out to California about 2 weeks ago and visited with Jen for a day. We actually called it a night pretty early (at least by my standards) because we needed to get up early for shooting the film the following morning.

Thursday, we got up and headed down to the center were my mom is cared for during the day but were asked if we could reschedule to Friday morning. No huge problem there just a matter of coordination. So, Jen and I headed down to New York City. All the way downtown is the Michael J. Fox Foundation Headquarters, and we were scheduled to stop in for filming backgrounds in the offices. It was great to actually see the inner workings of such a fantastically driven organization. We met so many of the people we had previously only spoken t on the phone or traded emails with. While filming in the offices Jen stopped short at one point and said “Hey that’s us”…I was wondering what she was talking about and then I saw the banner we had carried to the top of the Volcano Cotopaxi during the last expedition climb. It had all our signatures on it just as was the last time we saw it. Actually you can see it in the MySpace Trail Called Hope II – Ecuador photo album. As it turns out, hanging just under that banner was the A Trail Called Hope - I – Mont Blanc banner with all those signatures on them (also in the appropriate MySpace A Trail Called Hope – I - photo album). It was wild to see that they were being saved and hanging there one after the other.
Although my hope is that cures are found very shortly….I’m committed to carry on with all our expeditions right on through to Everest in 2015 if the cures have not been found. And I’m sure they’ll keep piling up the banners right on top of each other, one year after the next.

Later on that afternoon we headed North to Putnam County where we filmed Eric at work coaching his all girl high school soccer team. The girls team is actually the Regulars very first “Street Team”. They held a charity soccer tournament for us this past fall. Jen and I collected a bunch of great footage here and the girls were as funny and talented to watch as they usually are. We were keeping our fingers crossed on the way up there because the sky was supposed to rain on us, but it held out. As it turns out it even made the sky look pretty extreme to the camera’s eye. The producer should be getting some great images in that session.

Following this we headed back South to my parents house in Westchester County, where the producer wanted to collect footage of my parents at the tail end of a typical day. All I can say is that it was a challenge to keep my mom (with Alzheimer’s) from ignoring us like she was supposed to.

On Friday morning Jen & Eric woke up early and headed back to my parents house (which is coincidentally just down the road from Eric’s house). It was time to document the early portion of my mom’s day, so we headed back down to the center to drop my mom off for the day. Jen got some pretty emotional footage while there.
Friday night Jen the producer, Jen my wife and I drove back down into Manhattan, for the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Team Fox MVP Dinner. It was a great time. We shot some footage, took some photos, and met up with a bunch of new and old friends (and warriors). Big Ken & Ann Glowienke from “Focus on a Cure” were both there as always. We sat together for dinner with Dave MacNiven & Dana Barden (a few of the MJFF / Team Fox directors). As many of you already know…Ken and Ann are the masters when it comes to coming up with ideas for events, and how to orchestrate them. Ken is also one of the very first of the Team Fox Teams to evolve up the ladder so to speak by pushing to create his very own 501c3 charity, which is an accomplishment in itself. “The Regulars” are actually just now beginning this process to become a 501c3 as well. Although a 501c3 is not recommended for everyone to go through, in our case given the on-going aspect of our charity it is helpful.

The foundation premiered their new Promotional Video which was great. By the looks of it …if they didn’t show every single person who organized a charity event for them in 2007 – they came pretty close to it. I got a chance to meet some of the other people featured in the promo film like…Katie Clark, Gary D. Leith, Roy & Sharon Greif, Katie Heteji. These people have all set very high standards and have raised the bar on great accomplishments in fund raising. For example Mr. Leith raised more than $100,000 last year, and Mr. & Mrs. Greif raised over $70,000. The Katie’s were both driven and imaginative & innovative with their ideas which I really hope they expand on in the coming years!

I feel like such a beginner next to them, but you know what I wouldn’t have it any other way at the moment. Every day I learn more and get better at raising awareness and funds for research, and all the things which I don’t yet know drive me to learn more and improve. So …one step at a time I’ll get there.

I also met a few people at the MJFF – Team Fox MVP Dinner who said they just might even consider climbing on my team at some point down the line, which is fantastic. Parkinson’s is a global problem, so team mates can come from anywhere people live. The world is the arena. In this war against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease we’re not here to take prisoners; we’re here to set them free.

There are ton’s of people helping Team Fox to raise funds for research now and there are so many ways to get involved in raising awareness and funds. The limit’s are endless. People try athletic events, cooking, dancing, you name it. But I’ve got to say that for as many people there are stepping up to the plate to swing at knocking these diseases out of existence….there are still not enough.
If everyone does a little, much can be done, but only you can take the first step to take action. The world will not hold your hand on this, and that’s part of the challenge because you’re getting involved may not be easy. In the end when cures are found, the reward is in knowing you played a part in helping to find them.

So back on track, we were basically off of filming on Saturday. I had my niece’s first communion to go to most of the day, and Jen went out on a hike with Eric.

Sunday, we got back to our filming schedule and headed out to the back country (if that’s what you can call it in Westchester County). Jen, Eric & I met up with Dan & Tyler to do some training out on the trails in Pound Ridge Reservation, while Jen maneuvered around us getting a little more background footage for the film documentary. It was a great time.

Anyway with all that being said…there is still so much more to be done. This week I start to record some music which may be considered by the production company for use in the soundtrack of the documentary, so I’ve got to find a little time to get into the studio and begin crafting.

But for now, I’ve got to get back to work.

World up,
Enzo

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Through the Eyes and Heart of an Advocate

Yesterday was a very special day for me. I brought together my team "Jim's Gems" for the second year in a row to New York City for the Parkinson's Unity Walk. I formed this team to honor one of my best friends Jim who has Young Onset Parkinson's Disease. He continues to inspire me and encourage me in my efforts to help find a cure. Without his support I would not be where I am. And that is a more active Advocate for my causes. I have walked 3 days/60 miles two years in a row for Breast Cancer. I have walked six years in a row for Multiple Sclerosis. I have walked two years in a row for Parkinson's Disease. And now my biggest endeavor to date is my effort to climb Mt. Hood in Oregon this July for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Disease with "The Regulars".

I have been on all sides of the fence. I have been a caregiver to both of my parents. My mother battled heart disease and lung cancer on top of a rare blood disorder. My dad battled heart disease, had several mini strokes and just lost his will to live when my mom passed away. I cared for them both in my home while raising my boys who were just babies and my oldest who was 16. Along with my husband we cared for my parents in every way possible that you would care for someone that was ill. I will never forget this time nor will I ever wish it never happened. It was a time in my life when everything was right and made sense. When I lost both of my parents, which was within seventeen months of one another, my life crashed. But.....I rose abve and began a new journey. My journey of advocacy.

I know I can't begin to understand all diseases and what each one does to an individual. But what I do know is that my heart breaks knowing that people I love are fighting and people I have loved lost the fight. My hands are tied when someone says to me do you know what that disease is all about. No, I don't. I educate myself through books and Blogs and emails. I listen to those that have these diseases. I try to place myself in there shoes. The saying goes..."You can't walk the walk unless you talk the talk". This may be true in some incidences. But I believe an advocate is put into a different role. A role of caring for those that are looking for someone to give them hope that there are people who care enough to go the extra mile to help raise the funds to help find a cure.

I have said it before and I will say it another thousand times over......I will walk with you, for you, next to you, for my children, your children, there children. As long as God gives me the strength and the courage to pursue whatever avenue need be to raise the money, to draw awareness. I will be the shoulder you can lean on when you feel all is lost. Never will I let you feel that. An advocates heart is huge. As I know all caregivers hearts are also and all the ones who have to live everyday with these diseases. We are all in this together, there is no mistaken this. We join hands, hearts, souls to become one and find the cures.

Thank you all for giving me this opportunity to help. For making me feel important in your life. I thank God everyday for putting me in this role. For giving me the opportunities that have presented themselves to me. On behlaf of Jim's Gems and The Regulars......thank you for all of your support!!!!!!

There is still time to donate:

http://www.unitywalk08.kintera.org/jimsgems

OR:

http://www.theregulars.org

click on the links at the bottom of the home page for Alzheimer's or Parkinson's

World Up!
Eileen - aka........Strong Feather

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Coppersmiths Success


Guys…

"The Regulars" Coppersmith’s Bar Event (April 5th. 2008) was a great success I have to thanks everyone who came out for us! But, first let me start out by thanking my Street Team; Stephen, Chris, Brian, Marsha, Carmelita & Deepak. They did a massive job at coordinating the venue, creating and sending the Evites, checking the door as people came in, the whole 9 yards.

I know it was going to be an unusual night to start with and it was. I thought it was going to be raining, and the weather actually cleared up nicely to make it a great night.

There were 3 people from this years Mount Hood 2008 Team there including Eileen & Eric.

I had some of my friends from MySpace turn out – who I never met before. Red came out (you can find her in my second top friend spot)! Sandra also came up from Jersey to make sure that Eileen didn’t get out of control!

We had Alicia from the Alzheimer’s Association come down with one of her friend’s who I might ad is a hugely accomplished photographer & writer!

We had 4 beautiful Alzheimer’s research scientists come out from NYU.

Brad from the Dewey Knights came out with a friend of his. Some of my relatives came out!

There were people from Facebook.

There were ton’s of people from Hoboken.

All in all there were probably more than a hundred people there.

It was a great time, with a lot of positive energy for 2 great causes – Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s.

I wish more of you could have come out, but there will be more opportunities in the future.

Check the MySpace photo album & the Facebook photo album over the next few days for photos!


World up,
Enzo

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Coppersmith Event Tonight...more to come later


Hey it’s going to be an interesting night for the Regulars on the whole which I’ll write more about later during the week, so check back in on us.

I’ll tell you a little bit about what’s happening tonight but first let say that we have just officially started our fund raising effort for 2008. If you’d like to make a tax deductible donation to either the Alzheimer’s Association or the Michael J. Fox Foundation please click through on the following links.

Alzheimer’s Association:
https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=264554&lis=1&kntae264554=0BA67734AAF04C1EACB88374C000ABCE&supId=182059088

Michael J. Fox Foundation (Team Fox):
http://www.teamfox.org/siteapps/personalpage/ShowPage.aspx?c=mqITL0PHJtH&b=3944179&sid=ahJPJ0NGJhJMJXNzGmE

On behalf of more than 30 Million people world wide suffering with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease I ask for your support in the form of a donation to one or both foundations!

Research is fueled by donations from Regular people just like you and I. We all have a hand to play in bringing down these two giant diseases.

Now just a quick heads up, tonight the Regulars Street Team 2008 has put together a social event which will be held at Coppersmiths in Manhattan. Steve, Chris, Brian, Marsha, Carmelita & Deepak have really done a fantastic job coordinating this whole event. We will be using the proceeds to create a new 501c3 charity corporation so that in the coming years the Regulars can pull out all the stops and raise more funds for research than we could have ever hoped for as little band of climbers. This is going to prove to be great over the next few years...I can feel it.

Tonight we’ll have more than a hundred people showing up. There will be people coming who I have not seen since I was in college. There will be people I have never met coming from MySpace, and from Facebook. There will be people I’ve never met coming from the Alzheimer’s Association and very possibly the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
Of course, there will also be people I’ve known for years, and if you keep you’re eyes out you’ll even see one of my new & old team mates as the Regulars turn out!

It’s going to be a wild - wild - wild time, and my thanks goes out to all who attend! You will be helping us step into a much greater and more productive arena from which to battle Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s!

World up,
Enzo

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Weights and machines and that padded floor thing

Six days a week, lifting, stretching, walking, sweating, meditating, preparing. Laundry, kids, carpooling, grocery shopping, cleaning, working. And on the seventh day I rested. Yeah right! But it’s all good and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Had to mention, cut consumption of coffee down to 80%. Before you know it coffee will just be a memory. But oh, what a memory. It has been my pick-me-up, my comfort zone, my go to when there is no where else to go to, my best friend on a rainy day, my survey drink of choice, my writing partner. But hey, who has time anyway to even drink coffee yet alone stress about it. There is just too much to do now. The focus is on the goal, the cause, the outcome. I am pushing myself to the limit and beyond. So I believe I am. I talk about it only when you address me. I keep to myself, but if you approach me and want to talk, I will talk your ear off. I have always been behind the scenes, shy, introverted person. I have come into my own over the last several years. I guess better later then never. I have a voice and I am using it.

I have strong convictions, and desires to make a difference in peoples lives. To open myself up to everyone that needs that hug or that reassuring talk to get them through there day. Training for my climb has changed me. Not a whole lot because I have been an advocate and caregiver for most of my life. Just internally grounded more because of what lies ahead. The strong, strong feelings I get knowing that I am making a difference and the hope for a cure is right there. The group I am involved with. the Regulars, how amazing to have been called up for this. But I was and not a minute in my life I am not thinking about it.

I guess some will view me as slightly cracked for feeling these desires about the whole thing and others will respect me for what I do. I have come to the conclusion it is not for anyone to judge me or why I do the things I do. I am a good mother to my boys and they support me. They push me when I am moving too slow getting out the door to the gym. Hoping one of them will say, "Come on Mom, stay home today and rest". I know my boys are mine when they say, "Get to the gym, you’re climbing a mountain". It sounds kind of funny seeing it in writing but it is what motivates me. I want my boys to look up to me, well, actually my 6’3" son I have to look up to, to emulate me, to be proud of me. They all exhibit strong qualities. I push them to be there best.

I center my life around these boys of mine. I want a world free of disease and for cures to be found for them. I want them not to worry about what my generation has been made to worry about. I want them to see that anybody can step up to the plate. Ok, ok, I know you’re thinking what the hell am I talking about. I can’t save the world. I can’t cure diseases. I can’t even climb a mountain......yet. My point is, strength in numbers yields more positive results. You can do anything in this life if you apply yourself and you move forward with it. We may be a small group of people climbing but the network we build behind us is enormous. "Together is One". Voices heard yield to more peoples ears to become opened and then step up to the plate and find the cures and the correct research and even the theories behind preventing these diseases.

That’s all. I’m doing ok with my training and even my lack of coffee, oh and chocolate. Back to the gym tonight and tomorrow night and the night after that. But like I said before.......It’s all good!!!!!!

World Up!
Eileen - Strong Feather
Mt. Hood - ’08