Much has happened since I decided to take a leap of faith in my own life and attempt Mt. Everest.  Summiting Everest was a positive experience for me, and now it is time to share the lessons I have learned about believing in yourself and following your dreams. 

Through my company, Empowerment Through Adventure, I have created a series of adventure activities for others who would like to challenge themselves, step outside of their comfort zone, and feel empowered in their own lives.

Check back often, for details of upcoming adventures, as we begin taking those steps that help us face our own fears, and live life more fully.

Thanks for following my story and I hope to some day share an adventure with you!
 

“It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves” – Sir Edmund Hillary
 
Take a Leap Of Faith In Africa!
Kilimanjaro Climb 2011
Take A Leap Of Faith in Africa!
Kilimanjaro Climb 2011

Hello All, This is Lori Schneider, with Empowerment Through Adventure.
Are you ready to live your dreams and climb beyond your limits?
Are you ready to jump start your MS world and put a little 'life' back in your life?
Are you ready to take a risk and feel the power of having set a goal and doing what it takes to give it your best shot?
Are you ready to summit the mental mountain that MS has placed in front of you?
Are you ready to empower yourself through adventure?
If you are, then read on and make your dreams become a reality......

We are now one year away from the Kilimanjaro 2011 trip that I have spoken about in interviews and during my presentations. Here are the preliminary details.

About Kilimanjaro:
Crowned by eternal snows, the mighty Kilimanjaro (19,340ft) is the highest free-standing mountain in the world and dominates its landscape unlike any other mountain. Located in Tanzania, this extinct volcano looms over five eco-systems and large game reserves and is certainly one of the world's most impressive sights. The terrain is nothing short of dramatic. Climb with me!

1. WHO is eligible?
Anyone that has MS and joins us with an open mind, a heart and spirit that say "YES I will try!", and a positive attitude to hike toward their own personal summit. The success is in the journey, it is always in the journey.

2. WHAT does it take physically?
No climbing experience is necessary, because Kilimanjaro is not a technical climb. Each person would need to feel comfortable walking for several hours each day, for about 7 days while in Africa. Some days will be long, but we will set a slow pace, and each person will climb as far as they feel comfortable. Each person with MS will be accompanied by a personal companion climber, to share the experience. The companion climber is there to listen, assist you when needed, rest with you when you feel the need for a break, and be a friend who cares about YOU before, during and after the climb. To get ready for the Kilimanjaro climb, each participant would need to spend about 6 months training, by walking daily to build strength and endurance. Our goal is to help each person feel successful, no matter how high they choose to climb.
We will have a doctor accompanying us on the climb.
Will it be hard? Yes!
Will you have days you want to quit? Maybe!
Will you test your limits? Probably!
Will it be the hardest thing you ever loved? Without a doubt!

3. WHEN will the climb take place? July 10-24, 2011

4. WHERE will I be traveling while in Africa?
Following our climb of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, we begin a four-day safari to the spectacular game parks of Tanzania. Throughout the safari, we lodge in luxurious hotels and travel by Land Cruiser across the Great Rift Valley, following wildebeests, lions, and other indigenous wildlife.

The Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unbroken crater on earth and claims the highest density of wildlife on the African continent. The view from the crater rim is breathtaking and descending deep into the belly of the crater we will encounter almost every animal species found in east Africa. During this segment of the safari we spend time in a traditional Masai village.

The Tarangire River and National Park, south of Lake Manyara, is a huge wildlife retreat during the dry season. The river valley contains stunning views of the savanna and great varieties of large mammals such as kongoni, wildebeest, and zebra. With any luck, safarists will also see rhino and leopard amongst a variety of gazelle, giraffe, elephant, and impala.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania's signature park, covers nearly 15,000 square miles and spans into Kenya where it connects to the Masai Mara reserve. The word Serengeti conjures images of wild African game in all its glory. The abundance of animals running at will creates an overwhelming experience to behold. The sheer mass of animals is both staggering and long remembered. There is even a spectacular sunrise balloon ride over the Serengeti.

5. HOW much will this experience of a lifetime cost?
Our hosts for this trip will be the expert guides at Alpine Ascents International, voted 'Best Mountain Guide Service on Earth' by National Geographic Adventure Magazine. Their safety record and success rate are second to none. They have priced this trip at approx. $6200, (excluding airfare to Africa).
Trip includes all land costs & transportation, hotels, group equipment, meals, porters, guides, park fees, climbing permits, safaris, and hot air balloon ride.
*Partial scholarships may be available to those with MS, based on need. I will also work with you in helping to find sponsorship from local MS Societies or organizations, who can help you realize your dream.

6. WHY?
Because every once in a while you have to tell yourself you are worth it.
Because every once in a while you have to put yourself first, and do something that others may think is a little crazy.
Because every once in a while, you have to reach for the stars.
Because our MS does NOT define us!

So now that I have given you much to think about, breathe, let your mind wander to far off lands, and take a Leap Of Faith.

Let me know if you are interested in making this dream a reality, and I will send you more details. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Don't be afraid to dream big. Believe in yourself.

Hugs to all, Lori

Lori Schneider