Lori Schneider conquers her lifelong dream, MS or not
Lori Schneider, 52, who was diagnosed with MS a decade ago, is deserving of the title of most inspirational person in the world because today she reached one of her life-long dreams and is at the top of the world, on Mount Everest.
Late Friday night her team is expected to reach the summit, and the highest point in the world—29,035 feet.
Schneider's team checked in via Internet on Thursday at the camp base at 26,000 feet.
Reports from the team say:
"Everyone is doing great. I can't emphasize that enough. We are all very, very happy, and very excited to be here."
Schneider is seeking to complete her seventh summit, reaching the highest peak on each continent. She started with Mount Kilimanjaro in 1993, then continued with Mount Aconcagua in 2000.
In 1999, Schneider was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and the uncertainty of her physical ability added new urgency to her climbing. She topped Mount Kosciuszko, in Australia and the Vinson Massif, in Antarctica, last year.
Here's what she said on her blog before she went up:
"Hi, This is Lori Schneider and I am in Nepal, attempting the climb of my life. Ten years ago, Multiple Sclerosis WAS the climb of my life, and I feel fortunate that I have summited that obstacle and am now descending from the pain and fear. I know of many others with MS that have not been as fortunate as I am, and you will be with me in spirit, as I scale Mt. Everest. Life with MS can be very difficult at times, but it is often those very challenges that make us stronger. I have let go of the fear and am living my dreams while I can. If I need to let go of some of the "physical" dreams in the future, I will find new dreams to pursue. I am climbing this mountain for all of us with MS, and all those who need to be reminded to live their dreams. Believe....Lori Schneider."
This is an accomplishment for anyone, especially someone in their 50s, and especially someone with MS.
So, quit your complaining and griping. Quick whining about your aches and pains. Think of Lori Schneider, who is fulfilling her dreams despite a debilitating disease that puts her in perpetual pain and numbness.
It's that kind of bravery, inspiration and example that moves mountains.
* CLICK HERE for Lori's personal website. (www.empowermentthroughadventure.com/biography.htm)
* Climbing Everest, Follow the Adventure
* The Wisconsin State Senate, via Sen. Bob Jauch, honors the climber
* The inspiring story on Guidepost
See a video about Lori and her story (and a slide show) below . . .
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