Heather's Fundraising Page!

Hike For Discovery is The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's adventure fundraising program that prepares people to experience a natural wonder in a special way.

The training that I am doing is a constant reminder that cancers are a big part of the world today. I am so thankful that I am able to participate in an event that will accelerate the cure and lead to a cancer free world and help those affected now, like my grandmother, with support, information and research.

I am hiking in honor of my Grandmother who was recently diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). Although she is doing great, I wanted to do something for her, not only to show her how important she is in my life, but to raise awareness to others, so we can keep these diseases from affecting more people and simply to make a difference!

If you are connected to blood cancer, please let me know your story! I would love to hike in honor of you, your family or your friends that have been touched by blood cancer!

While I'm training, I'm raising funds to help the Society cure leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. More than 712,000 Americans are battling these blood cancers. Your support of my participation in Hike For Discovery will help bring them hope and support.

Please make a donation to support my participation in Hike for Discovery and help advance the Society's mission. You can also double your donation if your company matches funds. Check out this link, LLS Matching Gifts, to see if your company has a matching gifts program or email me if you want more information. Click here to send email.

I hope you'll visit my web site often, so that you can see how my training and fundraising efforts are going. Be sure to check back frequently to see my progress. Thanks for your support!

In honor of my grandmother and all those affected by cancer!

Check out this link to see pictures of the team training to cure blood cancer!

Hike for Discovery Photos

Check out this link to see pictures of the team hiking in Kauai to cure blood cancer!

Hike for Discovery Kauai Photos

Trail: Nualolo-Awaawapuhi Loop

Trail rating: 49

Trail length: Approx. 9.8 miles

Possibly the planet’s most enchanted and remote island coastline is featured in this trail that will take your breath away in more ways than one. The Na Pali Coast of Kauai is one of nature’s greatest marvels as wind, rain and gigantic ocean swells have sculpted the 4,000 foot cliffs and valleys into a surreal landscape of colors and impossible shapes.

The starting point is 3600 feet above sea level in in the misty forests of Kokee State Park. This is a hikers trail with varied terrain and incredible views. The trail descends 1200 feet over 3.5 miles through a forest of towering native Koa and Ohia trees to drier and more open country as you near the ocean. The forest will give you glimpses of the endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean and then, when connecting with the Nualolo Cliffs Trail you have one of those “I wish my mind was big enough to wrap around this moment” moments. The green and black volcanic cliffs of Kauai are folded and steeply draped before the blue horizon. 2500 feet directly below your boots is the acheingly remote Nualolo Valley. From here, The Cliff trail will skirt high above the coast through forest and ridge for about 2 miles before meeting up with the Awaawapuhi trail which will test your legs in a steady climb of over 3 miles and 1500 feet of elevation gain. Along entire hike there are numerous chances to see some of the rarest plants and birds found no where else but Kauai.

My Journey to Help Find a Cure

July 8, 2007

This past Saturday I completed my first hike on my journey for the Hike for Discovery! It was only 2 hours long, but it was a great time getting to know fellow hikers and honorees. The uphill climbs were a little tough and a little slow going, but I pulled through with no problems. All my new gear worked great too. Although it did take me a little while to figure out how to use my camelback :P I have to give thanks to the REI employees who spent over 2 hours helping me with hiking boots!

July 12, 2007

This past Tuesday I completed my first track training! It included things like climbing bleachers, core strengthening, stretching and overall hike preparations. It was not nearly as difficult and I had anticipated! I was also named as one of the top 3 fundraisers!!! I got a flower leis to wear in lieu of Kauai. Thank you so much for making this happen!

July 15, 2007

This past week was a very busy one! I had a gear clinic Wed. night where I learned all about proper clothing, gear, protection from the elements and basic nutrition. What I came out of it was, my boots were not fitted properly, I have wide toe boxes, high arches and insteps (my feet are not boot friendly!) and cotton is rotten for outdoor activities! It was back to the drawing board with the boots. Many props to REI Saratoga’s shoe guru Bence! I think we finally nailed it this time. Thursday I went to a pole clinic. Using poles while hiking allows you to use your upper body strength to help you glide up and down the terrain. It actually takes about 30% of the pressure off your hips and knees, not too mention makes you go faster and use less energy. I was sold! Saturday was my second hike. It was perfect outside, about 60-65 degrees and sunny. The hike was great, the views of the bay amazing, the boots-great! I am really looking forward to what this adventure has in store for me!

July 21, 2007

Over the past week, trainings have been getting a little more intense at the track, which is good, and we did a 3 hour hike on a pretty open area…meaning no shade, so it was a wee bit on the warm side, but a very good hike indeed with some amazing views of the rolling hills with the pillow-like marine layer hugging them tight. I managed to pick up 3 more donations for my raffle! Yay! I am very excited about the support from my local community. Friday was the 911 Hot Wing Challenge, it was very memorable and it has brought me closer to my goal! I have jumped so far out of my comfort zone that I am just amazed at what I am accomplishing on this journey! I have been blessed!

July 29, 2007

I am 4 weeks into training! Wow, how does the time fly so quickly? This week was honoree week. We heard from several of our honorees at track and we also had a potluck for them after our big hike on Saturday. Boy was that fun and yummie! I also made it to the incline session on Thursday, which was a great way to end the stressful day. This Wednesday is my goal date, I know God will provide by opening generous hearts and allow people to see the impact the LLS is having in the world of cancer. I want to do everything in my power to make that happen so we can eradicate cancer from the world!

August 5, 2007

This past weeks training was really good! The incline hike on Thursday was just what I needed after a stressful day at the office and the Saturday hike, well it tested me. The trail had a lot of rolling hills that seemed to always go up! It was pretty warm too, around 95 degrees when we finished our 4 hours, but the view was spectacular. I faxed in my recommitment papers, so I am in it for the long haul! The good thing is that I have more time to finish fundraising, so if you have not yet donated, please do so now! I am working on figuring out my final event when the raffle will be hosted. So stay tuned!

August 12, 2007

Yet another beautiful hike! In the morning, it was a bit chilly as we assembled atop “Windy Hill” to start our hike! The fog was so dense that you could barely see 200 feet in front of you, not to mention the wind! This wind was like sheer cutting force through our cold bodies at 7:30 am! As we began to hike, our bodies warmed up and the fog slowly receded back to the coast. This week while hiking, we learned about several types of plants and animals along the trail. This trail was a bit different from the others…it seemed more tropical, if you will. And we did trench through some mud this time around. This week was also game night! It was a nice turnout and there was a lot of fun to be had! We played Wii games...one of which we had Han Solo vs. Hitler, which was quite funny! There was also some uno and simply amusing card games involved! A great time for all who participated! Thank you all for coming out!

August 18, 2007

Well I was not able to make it to Yosemite to hike Half Dome today, but I did manage to get to Mission Peak instead. With a steady incline to the peak, about 2200 feet in elevation, you think it is never going to stop! As the views of the bay area keep getting better and better, you finally climb really steep sections to the peak! Boy is it worth it. The views from mission peak not only are amazing for the bay area, but also the valley on the other side of the “hill”.

August 26, 2007

This week I was able to help raise awareness of the LLS Hike for Discovery campaign by setting up an information booth at REI in Mountain View. Many thanks to REI-Mountain View!!!!! It is really nice to see that people are interested! Let’s hope they help make a difference! I hiked the Sanborn trail this week, it included the steepest trail yet, Peterson trail. It was a surefire way to get your heart rate up quickly and a very good test of mind over matter! This is what I call endurance training! After 5.5 hours of hiking in a moderate 75-80 degrees, I was ready for a nice refreshing shower and some good old fashion relaxing! We are about 6 weeks away from our Kauai hike. This week we were able to pick the trail we wanted to hike once we get there. My #1 pick was the Nualolo-Awaawapuhi Loop. Here’s why! Possibly the planet’s most enchanted and remote island coastline is featured in this trail that will take your breath away in more ways than one. The Na Pali Coast of Kauai is one of nature’s greatest marvels as wind, rain and gigantic ocean swells have sculpted the 4,000 foot cliffs.

September 1, 2007

This week held true to our classic super hot week and holiday. As usually, the temperatures soared into the high 90s and even higher in some places. The hot dry weather even sparked a wildfire very close to home. In fact, it closed the trail we were supposed to hike on Saturday. Our trusty leaders wouldn’t let a closed trail stop us! They found another equally impressive trail that we hiked on for 6-6.5 hours! It was not a difficult trail, but the high temps and the gnats got the best of a lot of us, me included. I am sure we all felt tons better after a nice cool, refreshing shower! It looks to be warm again this week! Keep your fingers crossed that the temps will come down a bit for track and the hike this Sat!

September 9, 2007

Although this week’s track training was a bit tough to get going, we had an awesome session. I must say missing a week really does make a huge difference for me! I don’t think I will be missing anymore training sessions ;) Our hike this week was perfect! We hiked El Corte de Madera and it was beautiful. The trails were stunning; the company was great and the weather superb! No pesky bugs :D This hike was a mentor lead hike meaning that we could invite anyone to join along in the fun. I was very surprised to see almost all of the hike team there with a lot of new faces! It’s really cool to meet new people and show them what we do every week! Later on Saturday I held the Raffle BBQ event. It was a big hit and a lot of fun. The food was amazing and hit the spot after a 5-hour hike earlier in the day. I thank all the vendors and participants for your support! Your efforts brought in over $600 for LLS. Congratulations to the winners as well! I hope you all enjoy your prizes!

September 16, 2007

The beginning of fall has approached us. The coolness of the evenings and the brisk mornings remind us that nature is ever changing. This week at track training, I noticed how quickly the sun is setting. Now as we do our bleacher drills and core strengthening, we are not longer blessed by the evening sun, but the coolness of the evening. We have come a long way during our training season. We learned how to hike properly, that is being prepared. Nutrition on the trail marks the novice from the experienced. This week we hiked Purissima with its great redwood trees and microclimates. It was a truly stunning hike. For the first time this season, we were able to see the coast and the true meaning of the name Half Moon Bay. We were able to witness these spectacular views atop the peaks while we hiked for 7.5 hours. The day was perfect. It started out about 65 degrees and warmed up to the mid 70s. There were some really good hills and a lot of variety on the trail. We even stopped for lunch. This was my first real hiking lunch and I was surprised and how hungry I was. I always pack extra snacks, but I never thought I would need them!

September 23, 2007

This week we endured the cool temps of fall as we hiked around the campus at Foothill College for our track training and witnessed God’s work at hand as Yom Kippur fell on Saturday so our hike this week was moved to Sunday. This past Saturday, we had our first rain of the season and boy did it rain. It started with a small thunderstorm Friday night and rained all day and all night Saturday. We did need a good soaking though! As I woke up around 6am to get ready and meet up for our carpool, I was skeptical about the weather. However, as the sun came up, the skies were bright blue! I did not know what to expect on the trail since we had so much rain the day before, but to my surprise, the trail was just damp as if only the morning dew covered it. The trail, Nisene Marks, was beautiful. There were lots of amazing views from creeks, to redwoods, to bamboo, squirrels and birds. Nature at its best! We even hiked to the epicenter of the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989! It was a bit of an obstacle course to get there, crossing 2 creeks, moving over and under large tree trunks and avoiding the ever so lush poison oak! It was well worth the adventure! Everyone has come so far through the season from huffing and puffing through our first 2-hour hike to managing just fine through 9+ hours this past Sunday. Yes, 9+ hours is a long time to be hiking, but if our efforts help find a cure; it is so totally worth it!

October 9, 2007

After a couple of delays or should I say trials, I made it to Kauai and on the most beautiful trail I have ever hiked! On hike day, we traveled up the mountain to gorgeous views of the canyon with sunny clear blue skies. As we arrived at the trailhead, we found overcast skies and light drizzle! Never did I think I would experience such microclimates in one 10-mile area! The trail started out with a narrow incline comprised of Kauai red dirt, fallen leaves that had the appearance of horse shoes on the ground and plenty of tree roots to hold it all together. After about 20 minutes of climbing, we started our decent. It was very slow going as the red mud bathes our hiking boots allowing for a super slippery adventure down the mountain. Thank goodness for the tree roots, dead wood and grass patches to help scrap the mud off my boots for a little more traction.

About an hour into the hike, the rain stopped and we had a glimpse of sun. We decided to stop for a break where we found not only raspberry and regular guavas, but also some papaya fruit. Did I mention the beautiful bright flowers we saw along the way and throughout Kauai? Each bend had a new surprise. As we made out way down the mountain, the sun came out with beautiful clear blue skies. As hour 3 approached, we headed deeper into what looked liked less traveled terrain with the trees becoming fewer by the step. Then we saw our first glimpse of the coast! After oooohing, awwwwing and a few photos, we plunged forward in our excitement to get to the coast. At this point in time, there were very few trees and just some brush as we approached our second view of the coast. This one blessed us with a beautiful rainbow at the base of a sheer edged cliff. At that point, I realized I was hiking on the ridge of a similar cliff. As the trail narrowed to the ridge, we had about 2 feet at the narrowest point to cross with nothing to brace us from a very long drop. As I moved forward, I could not help but notice the rainbow of colors in the dirt. In an area of only a few feet, there were 8-10 shades of colored dirt ranging from red to yellows, to blues and purples to grays. It was stunning and easy to spot if you were looking down at the ground like I was! Then about 100 feet away, around a cliff top, there it was…a vast plateau of red dirt a top a cliff on the edge of the Na Pali coast. We saw double rainbows and fog hugging other cliffs in the distance. But right there, we had the most spectacular birds eye view on the island. As we sat down and had lunch under the warm Hawaiian sun, we had a cool breeze, some red dirt in our lunch and an amazingly refreshing mist from the ocean so far below. I didn’t want to leave!

After lunch we headed back. As we backtracked from the vista point, we hiked back toward the vast cliffs of the coast. Shortly there after, we ran across a sign that said to proceed with extreme caution as the next .25 miles of trail were washed out due to rain and rock slides. Boy they were not kidding. We had about a foot wide trail hugging the edge of a cliff with nothing but rock and water below! After we passed that point, we entered an area of crazy overgrown Hawaiian grass that we walked through. It was taller than me in most cases and reminded me of walking through a cornfield maze, but with the corn stalks much closer together on every side. About an hour after leaving the coast, we hiked to a spot where I was not sure where the trail went (I was in the front of the group)! We had found yet another washed out part of the trail. Our trail guide had to do a little scouting to determine if the trail went up or down! As suspected, it went up with the trail consisting of about 1-2 rocks wide and about 8 rocks up! It was a nice, but slippery little climb as it started to drizzle on us once again. Later we came to several switchbacks, but they were not as steep as some of them here in California, but more gradual and filled with rocks and tree roots to help keep traction. As we hiked further into the lush forest of the coast, the trail widened and the rain increased as we ascended to the end of the trail and met another hike team. We were all tired, but excited that we had just experienced such an amazing place that you can only get to on foot! I managed to make it through without slipping in the red mud, however, doing so reminded me how difficult and slow going the battle with blood cancers can be. Even though my experience hiking has been challenging, I can only praise those that have battled the trials of living with blood cancers. They are stronger than I could ever try to be!

Thank you to all of you who helped me raise awareness and funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society! With your dedication and contributions, we will find a cure!