Hello friends and family!
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 at the age of 40. I was a healthy, active, wife and mother running to keep up with our 3 young daughters working as a pediatric oncology research nurse. I had no family history. I went through surgery, chemo and radiation as part of my initial treatment and have continued in the last 9 years as a breast cancer survivor. I am grateful to have survived cancer. Going through that experience has forever changed me and my outlook on many things, many in positive ways surprisingly. I am understanding now my need for support following my cancer experience and the importance of being around others who have experienced something similar.
I continue to enjoy being active and am looking forward to a new challenge coming in August. Earlier this year I learned about Expedition Inspiration. Since 1995, Expedition Inspiration has funded over $1.8 million in research grants. I want to join in their quest to raise money for breast cancer research and ultimately to find a cure that has taken too many lives. Your donation helps me to reach my climb goal of raising $1,500.00 The money we raise goes directly to young scientists funding research grants working towards finding a cure.
I will be joining a small group of women who are breast cancer survivors as we set out to climb Galena Peak, near Ketchum Idaho in the Sawtooth Mountain Range. It will be a challenge mentally and physically for sure, yet a rewarding experience.
Would you consider supporting me and Expedition Inspiration in our quest to raise money for breast cancer research and finding a cure?
I appreciate your love, support, and encouragement in this.
With lots of love,
Colleen
Expedition Inspiration's 2026 Climb for a Cure
Expedition Inspiration's 2026 Climb for a Cure -- Galena Peak
"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.
Since 1995, we have funded over $1,830,225 in research grants. Our mountain climbs are branded: Climb for a Cure. Each survivor/climber peer-to-peer fundraises and those monies directly support our Young Investigator Award program, which we will be funding a new YIA this summer! Marrying mountain climbing and breast cancer research was our founder's vision. Nearly 30 years later, her legacy is a visible tribute to bringing hope, healing, and inspiration to those affected by this disease.
Until there's a CURE, there's a CLIMB!
Sisterhood of the Climb Video
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.