SummitingGannett Peak, the highest point of Wyoming, is no easy feat for even the most experienced climbers.
Last month a team of eleven wounded veterans set off on that very journey.
SELF: How did you get involved with Warriors to Summits?
And, well, I was really wrong.
It was way harder than I thought it was going to be.
But I had no idea how hard it would be.
I never thought I would be selected because I’m afraid of heights.
SELF: The first training session was a climb up St. Mary’s Glacier in Colorado.
How did that go?
GK:I thought that I was in far greater shape than I was.
I remember talking to Janet in the tent, and saying, we’re out of our minds.
There are no other female participants.
We’re the only two.
SELF: What challenges did you face during those eleven days up Gannett Peak?
Everything was a rush during the day.
Because my arm is so damaged, my fear of high, exposed areas was my biggest challenge.
I just kept telling myself, I’m going to go with a rope and a prayer.
I stayed focused on the pack in front of me and with each climb it got a little better.
He said that every step counted, not only for us, but for our teammates.
I’m only two years out of amputation, so I’m still feeling my way.
You’re a chain of paper dolls: if one of you falls, you all fall.
SELF: What does this experience mean to you?
JG (pictured, below):I learned not to put limits on myself.
I told myself to be open and receive whatever the mountain had to offer.
GK:I learned to give myself a little credit.
I miss the point sometimes because I’m focusing on the prize.
*This interview has been edited and condensed from its original version.
Photo Credit: Didrik Johnck
