The Grand Traverse Teton National Range, Wyoming – August 2009

22 Sep The Grand Traverse Teton National Range, Wyoming – August 2009

Back in early 2008, I first spoke to Russ Webb who was kind enough to give me some constructive feedback on my recently published book, The Climb of My Life.  He indicated he enjoyed the book yet was disappointed at what was left out….. a photo of my mountain-laden charm bracelet memorializing my post transplant accomplishments.  The truth is, what he really wanted to know was if I had a charm of the Grand Teton.   I said “No”.  And from there, it all began.

Russ Webb is the President of Committed Hearts, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, created in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to promote activities to enhance heart rehabilitation efforts of persons suffering from various forms of heart disease.  Yes, Russ has a heart that is mighty and strong!

At his invitation, Craig and I will come deliver a Heart Rehabilitation talk to their program, sharing my personal story with video and photos as well as provide information on what tricks I have  to stay healthy and strong in the hope that I can further seduce others into a healthy lifestyle.

Why my message means so much to them?  According to Russ, “Kelly’s big hearted appearance strikes a very personal chord for us in this area.  Several years ago we lost the great jazz pianist Gene Harris (of Boise, Idaho) to kidney disease before a donor organ became available.  We also know the family of a young mother from Ogden, Utah who died several years ago when a heart did not become available in time.”

What about the climb?

Idaho Falls is in the shadow of one of North America’s most  iconic and universally recognized peaks, The Grand Teton.  With the support of Exum Guides, my husband Craig and I will climb the Grand Traverse which includes the Grand Teton as well as 9 other surrounding summits.

Joining us for the glory of the Grand portion of the climb will be several cardiac rehabilitation nurses from the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. They are participating out of professional interest and as an example to the patients they serve.

A special thanks to Exum Guides and Marmot for their support of this event.

The Associated Press wrote a terrific pre-climb article as well as a followup.  The article was picked up by newspapers (yes, the paper version!) from the New York Times, Boston, Salt Lake City, Maimi, and others.   Additionally, the articles were posted on leading news websites, Rock and Ice Climbing Magazine, and others.  Click on the image below for the article in The HCA Magazine, Fall 09 .