In August, 2007 I will begin a 4 day long climb up the Grand Tetons (13,770 feet). Taking this journey with me are Edgar Luna DDS from Birmingham AL and David Johnson MD FACC of West Michigan Heart.   Breathing will become more difficult as we approach the summit, mimicking the primary symptom of Pulmonary Hypertension--sustained breathlessness. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a deadly, rapidly progressive and relentless disease that makes it difficult to breathe, due to constriction of the pulmonary arteries which carry blood from the heart to the lungs. 

      I will be taking on this challenge in honor of a patient, friend and colleague who was an inspiration to me and all who met her: Katherine Hanks, RN.  Katherine Hanks lost her life to PH this past spring, but I want to do this for her because of how she lived.  I always knew Katherine as the "Tiger" who always had a fighting spirit, positive attitude and was determined to live life to the fullest.   She was not only incredibly intelligent, but was also very selfless, overly helpful to other patients and families suffering and dealing with PH. She was truly an inspiration and beacon of light for all by demonstrating the immense impact one person can have in many lives. 

       Seeing the determination of Katherine and the many other people I have met over the last 11 years of working with Pulmonary Hypertension patients, as well as the support and dedication of our own  families, has made me determined to fight for a cure.  This disease steals our loved ones, our wives, husbands and children from us in the prime of their lives. Please help me raise the money for research by sponsoring my climb. It is only through the time, effort and dedication of our scientific community that we will conquer and cure this disease. Donations are tax deductible and will be used to fund life saving research.

      Thank you for joining the fight against Pulmonary Hypertension.