Post-Mount Kilimanjaro Climb – Jean-Francois’ Story

I had the pleasure to climb Mt Kilimanjaro 5895m (Tanzania, Africa) and I reached the summit on December 12th, 2018, at 7:30 am. As part of my project, my dream is to climb the 7 summits, the seven summits are the highest peaks on each continent. I already climbed Mt Denali 6190m (Alaska) , on June 23rd, 2018.

To be honest, I wasn’t expecting to have such a powerful experience on Mt Kilimanjaro. I knew from what I read and previous post, that it wasn’t a difficult mountain to climb. I never anticipated having such a strong connection with the Tanzanians. The people, I met during my adventure were so friendly, caring and loving, that I felt like a part of their family. We faced four days of heavy rain prior to our summit day.

Technically the climbing wasn’t hard, but mentally I had to keep a positive attitude, in order to deal with the cold and wet temperature. My team of porters and my guide had really limited gear and equipment. No matter the rain, the hard conditions and the difficulty of their job, they always kept a positive attitude and you could always see a beautiful smile on their faces.

Through their strength, I learned that no matter what life throws at you, it is possible to be happy. The evening prior and on the summit day, I could feel the effect of altitude, headache, nausea and stomach pain. I had to reach deep down inside to keep moving towards my dream. I was determined to reach my goal, no matter the difficulties and the challenges. After four hours of walking, suddenly there was nowhere else to go, I had made it to the roof of Africa.

I was touched by such a powerful sense of happiness and accomplishment. I immediately forgot about the rain, the cold, the difficulties and the effect of altitude.

At that point, I was fully living the present moment. The views from the summit were just so beautiful. When I took out my banner from my bag, I was again hit by a strong wave of emotions.

I had climb Mt Kilimanjaro 5895m, in the name of mental health.

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