In December, my mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. When we learned her diagnosis, our lives shifted dramatically. There are still many unknowns in our path ahead, but I feel so lucky to be close and able to stand by her through this process. The support she has selflessly provided throughout my life and the incredible strength it takes to be a mother inspire me beyond words. I am endlessly proud to be her daughter. If you know my mom, you know she’s full of life and love, she’s truly brilliant in every sense of the word, and her generosity is unparalleled. Her spirit is a ray of sunshine and giggles. Sharing her diagnosis with the people I’m close to, it struck me how many lives have been touched by ovarian cancer. This revelation was a call to action; we must do everything in our power to stop ovarian cancer in its tracks. I am climbing for an end to this disease. I am climbing for Mama Jo.

In April 2023, I will assist my friend and fellow mountain guide, Jess Wedel, in leading a group of ovarian cancer survivors, oncologists, and and their loved ones from Kathmandu to Base Camp of Mount Everest. From basecamp we will part with Jess and another inspiring survivor, Mary Beth Kepner. These two astounding women will continue on towards the summit of Mount Everest with the goal of being the first two Ovarian Cancer survivors to stand on the summit of Everest. This trek and their climb is attempting to raise $2.9 million to increase awareness and fund research into early detection and preventative measures.

Please join us on this mission and donate to show your support: for my mom, for your mom, and for all of the women in this fight.