I am a speech language pathologist. Currently directing an employment program for the employment of persons with disabilities, and I’m an all-around disability advocate. 

I was fortunate to be raised by amazing parents who always provided my sisters and I with priceless opportunities and experiences while growing up. It was the experiences that made me who I am today, and they have formed the basis for my most precious memories. Hence, I firmly believe in providing my own children with enriching experiences more than material things. My daughter climbing Kilimanjaro – in my view – was a great sweet 16 present, and an opportunity for us both to do something challenging together. It was also an opportunity to support an amazing cause. Providing a safe and comfortable “normalized” environment for other children to bond and connect with their parents, and form their own positive experiences.

Definitely a beginner 

It was definitely the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. It was also one of those singularly amazing life changing experiences. There were so many memorable parts; however, if I had to choose one it would be bonding with so many amazing and genuine individuals in such a short period of time. In terms of the hardest part physically, as I faced personal challenges on a daily basis, was coordinating my breathing and my racing heartbeat. I never knew my heart could beat so fast at rest. Psychologically, it was facing my demons (heights) and pushing my limits. But everyday you learned something new, overcame the hardships and become stronger for it. It is true: What does not kill you, makes you stronger. And that is a true gift from Allah. 

What I learned from climbing a Kilimanjaro:

1. I have always been comfortable with dying, and Kili reinforced that. It also reinforced that family is the singularly most important thing in this world, and they really are who you think about in the end.

2. We take so much for granted:

a. Child education.

b. Shelter – our homes and daily comforts.

c. Access to healthcare.

3. There is no better feeling in the world than to see your child surpass you. I did not make to Ughuru, only to Stella. My daughter made it all the way, and I could not be prouder.

4. Enjoy every part of the journey for what it is, because no experience will last long. Life is a series of changing environments, and each section teaches you something that prepares you for the next one.

5. To achieve anything you must work extremely hard because nothing comes easy.

6. You can function with no higher brain power.

7. What you need to survive is, surprisingly, very little.

8. Sunscreen is not just for the face. Do not forget your hands, ears and neck.

9. Water is a precious and amazing gift. Alhamdiulillah.

10. God sends you angels in the most unexpected forms. Shout out to Mona Ayubu Elias, Tito Omar and Ohoud.

11. There are genuinely good and kind people in this world. I’m incredibly grateful to my guides.

12. Take care of your feet, and they will take care of you.

Psychological commitment is the first and most important step. After that, give yourself enough time to start training gradually and build up. The physical aspect is not the hardest or most daunting part. It is what you cannot predict or plan for that you need to be mentally prepared for.

The purpose behind the climb amazed me and really inspired me to help the cause in anyway I can.

Beginner

Words would not be able to do justice. The experience was amazing, we had our ups and downs but we got through it. Summit night will definitely not be forgotten.

The mountain taught me that to accomplish your goals in life you will go through ups and downs, but eventually you will get there. It’s all in your mind. You control whether or not you can push yourself more to get to what you want, resisting all the thoughts of going back.

TRAIN! TRAIN! TRAIN! You need to build stamina and endurance. You can do it with the right amount of training and your brainpower.