In 2016, with zero mountaineering experience, I decided to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.  At the time it was the hardest physical and mental challenge of my life. It was a life-changing moment when I stood on the roof of Africa and that was when my self-doubts disappeared. From then on I wanted to continue challenging myself to see what I was capable of and just how far I could push myself. 

Over the following 3 years I devoted my life to pushing myself physically and mentally in some of the most dangerous environments to complete ‘The Explorers’ Grand Slam’. 

While challenging myself around the world -- I’ve brought awareness and raised funds for Lurie Children’s Hospital -- specifically their pediatric brain tumor program -- where I myself was successfully treated for a brain tumor in 2005.  I’ve dedicated each expedition to a current or former patient at Lurie Children’s and to date have raised almost $500,000. Giving back to Lurie’s has been one of the most gratifying accomplishments in my life.

 My goal is to inspire people to find their Everest and to discover the passion and love I found for mountaineering and making a difference in the world.