Hi All,
Thank you so much for supporting me and Expedition Inspiration in our quest to raise money for breast cancer research and finding a cure.
As many of you know, I was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer in September of 2016. As an otherwise healthy thirty-six year old, this diagnosis was a complete surprise. It was only after a routine mammogram and slightly less routine ultrasound, that the radiologist told me “You need to prepare for a cancer diagnosis”.
Those words sent me down a road that was unimaginable. At the time, I had no idea what “preparing for a cancer diagnosis” meant. Three years later, I know.
There are so many details, milestones, treatments and surgeries that I could chronicle (hard to count, and hard to look back on). But, the good news is that I’m on the other side. And, I’ve been preparing for the next big thing!
This July a group breast cancer survivors and I will attempt to climb Grand Teton - climbing to support research, fuel advocacy and challenge ourselves to reach new heights (literally!) post-cancer. Funds raised during the climb support the Laura Evans Memorial Breast Cancer Symposium, an invitation-only conference that brings renowned scientists, researchers and physicians from around the world to share unpublished information, analyze breakthroughs, discuss advances in treatment, and recognize hurdles to finding a cure.
For me, this climb is especially celebratory. Through my experiences, I've developed a newfound confidence in my ability to attempt BIG things. And, I feel incredibly thankful that I've been permitted the days on earth to work towards them. Please consider supporting me and Expedition Inspiration as we "Climb for a Cure".
With love,
Grace
Expedition Inspiration's 2019 Climb for a Cure
Expedition Inspiration's 2019 Climb for a Cure -- Grand Teton
"Climbing, in many respects, is not unlike facing a life-threatening illness. You take every step alone, digging deep, focused on the goal and your own inner strength."
- LAURA EVANS, Expedition Inspiration Founder
Join Expedition Inspiration for a day of adventure, fun, hope and inspiration as we CLIMB to raise funds for breast cancer research and finding a CURE.
Our annual mountain climbs are foundational to the work we do in raising money for breast cancer research, as well as carrying on our founder’s, Laura Evans, vision. Our outdoor adventures provide so much more than survivorship – we provide those touched by breast cancer an opportunity to experience and enjoy the gifts provided by the mountains while building new relationships with likeminded people who support them in their own journey with the disease. We are not only raising spirits and hope, but we are raising critical funds for research.
One of the most recognizable mountains in the country, the Grand Teton has drawn visitors to the area as long as history has been recorded. A landmark for native Americans and the first European explorers, the mystique has always been captivating. Even the rights to the first ascent remains in dispute. A crucible of American alpinism, the the climbers who honed their craft here in the golden age went on to pioneer the big walls of Yosemite, Patagonian spires and the Himalaya. Become part of it’s history by standing on top and join us for an amazing summit and a greater appreciation for the remarkable alpine environment only the Tetons can deliver.
The funds raised by the climbers will support the Laura Evans Memorial Breast Cancer Symposium, an invitation-only conference that brings renowned scientists, researchers and physicians from around the world to share unpublished information, analyze breakthroughs, discuss advances in treatment, and recognize hurdles to finding cures.
Until there's a CURE, there's a CLIMB!
Expedition Inspiration Film Trailer
Breast cancer survivor and mountain climber Laura Evans founded the Expedition Inspiration Fund for Breast Cancer Research in 1995 in Ketchum, Idaho. Expedition Inspiration's mission is to raise awareness and money to benefit innovative breast cancer research, public education and patient support. Additionally, through organized and sponsored outdoor endeavors like mountain climbs and hikes, we promote the physical and mental wellbeing of breast cancer survivors. Today breast cancer affects one in every eight American women -- mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends. It is the leading cause of death for women 35-54, and 80% of women with breast cancer have no known risk factors for the disease. There is still no cure, and thus, a need continues for research support, collaboration and funding.