My Journey Up Mt. Kilimanjaro: Five takeaways from a US Veteran

Embarking on a seven-day expedition to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro alongside seven other veterans of the US military was a life-changing experience for me. Sponsored by the incredible organization Disabled American Veterans (DAV), this challenging adventure not only tested our physical endurance but also provided profound mental health benefits. I want to share the transformative impact of our journey, while also expressing my deep gratitude for DAV's support and encouraging fellow veterans to embrace the healing power of nature and camaraderie. Too often society, and even each other, view disabled veterans as broken or limited in their capabilities. This adventure was a reminder of our internal fortitude and what we’re capable of.

1) Finding Authenticity and Comfort Among Fellow Veterans

One of the most remarkable aspects of this journey was the immediate sense of comfort and understanding I felt being surrounded by fellow veterans. It was the first time in a long time I felt truly comfortable and at ease. In their presence, I could be myself without the need for explanations or justifications. The camaraderie we shared was built on shared experiences and challenges, creating a space where I felt truly understood. It was a powerful reminder that the bonds forged in the military run deep and can provide a support system unlike any other.

2) A Group Mission: Rediscovering Purpose

Transitioning from military to civilian life can often leave us searching for a renewed sense of purpose. However, during our expedition, we were united by a common objective: reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. We were mission focused from the moment we met at Logan International Airport by doing gear checks, redistributing supplies, and repacking. From that moment, every second and action was spent ensuring everyone got to the top safely. This collective mission reignited the flame of purpose within us, allowing us to draw upon our military training and skills. Working together as a team, supporting and encouraging each other through obstacles, provided a familiar sense of mission that we had missed in our civilian lives.

3) The Power of the Group Mentality

Within our group of veterans, we quickly established a strong and cohesive unit. As veterans this was an enormous advantage because we inherently possessed the ability to quickly build a solid group rapport and understand our strengths and weaknesses. This mentality was something we may not have gotten with anyone else. Our shared experiences and understanding allowed us to form deep connections, creating a support system that transcended words. Together, we faced challenges head-on, rallying around each other in times of adversity. The unwavering support and encouragement we provided one another reminded us of our collective strength, and the importance of relying on others when faced with difficult situations. Everyone had their personal low point during the journey, but we were reminded once again that as veterans, we are never alone.

4) Pushing Beyond Limits: A Test of Mind and Body

Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro was an ultimate test of physical and mental endurance. Starting our ascent from an elevation of 5,900 feet, we gradually acclimated each day, pushing ourselves to new limits both physically and mentally. Confronting our fears and pushing through exhaustion, we overcame personal barriers we never thought possible. The triumph over ourselves became an incredible source of achievement and self-belief. It served as a reminder that we are capable of conquering any obstacle that life throws our way. I can personally say this was the hardest mental and physical challenge I‘ve put myself through. At 17,000 ft I felt my heart racing and couldn’t catch my breath. Immediately after I passed out on the side of the trail only to be awoken a moment later with headlamps in my eyes, two people shaking my body asking me if I knew my name and where I was. I got my bearings and decided to push on but inside I questioned if I should. My brain was foggy from passing out and my energy was near zero from vomiting. The next several hours were quite literally a test of mind over matter. In sub-freezing temperatures, in the darkness of the side of this mountain, I only had the mental strength to think about the next footstep, then the next. When I finally linked back up with our group below the summit, they were as astonished to see me as I was. Finally reaching the summit I had that feeling that I only felt a few times in life; completing basic training, returning from OIF, finishing college: “I can’t believe I did that.”

5) The Reward of Personal Growth

The journey up Mt. Kilimanjaro was not just about reaching the summit; it was about the personal growth and resilience we developed along the way. By challenging our boundaries, we gained a deeper understanding of ourselves and our capabilities. The mountain became a symbol of our own inner battles, reminding us that we possess the strength and determination to overcome any obstacle. I couldn't let myself down. I couldn't let my team down. I needed to remind myself what I'm able to do so I could attack the next challenge in life. The personal growth we experienced during those seven days will continue to shape our lives long after the expedition ended.

Mt. Kilimanjaro showcased the incredible power of nature and the profound impact of camaraderie among veterans. I encourage other veterans to embrace opportunities like this. Seek support from organizations like DAV, and venture into the great outdoors. Engaging in such experiences can serve as a stepping stone towards reclaiming our lives, fostering a renewed sense of purpose, and discovering the immeasurable benefits of nature, camaraderie, and personal growth. My hope is that other veterans will be inspired to seek similar experiences, embrace the healing power of nature, and find solace, strength, and growth through camaraderie.

I am incredibly grateful to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) for sponsoring this expedition. Their unwavering support demonstrated their commitment to veterans' mental health and well-being. Their endorsement serves as a testament to the vital role organizations like DAV play in helping veterans reclaim their lives and find renewed purpose.