The Beginning!

For the last couple of years, Dee and Chris have been contemplating participating in the Scott Firefighter Stair Climb in Seattle.  This is a fundraiser that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society coordinates each March.  Firefighters from all over the US, Canada and various other countries, come to the Pacific Northwest for this rather challenging event.  Last fall, we were too "slow on the draw" and did not register in time. (There were 1500 other folks who beat us to the punch.)  This fall, however, we managed to jump online the morning of registration and signed up to partake in this incredible fundraiser!  (This year it sold out in only a few hours!) 


March 6, 2011 marks the date of our ascent of the Columbia Tower, climbing all 1311 stairs (69 flights) in full firefighter turnout gear - heavy boots, pants, jacket, helmet, and gloves.  We will also be wearing an airpack, and breathing through a mask.  Not only is all of this gear quite heavy (40 lbs or so), but it is incredibly HOT!


Since registering in mid-November, we have started the process of getting in shape! Rainbow Falls Trail, Mount Dewey, the stairs at the firehall, and the stair climber at the gym have been frequently visited!  We are also cross training by running, swimming, doing yoga, lifting weights, and using cardio machines.  We hope to finish the climb "in good style".  Ie. reasonable finishing times, not running out of air before our refill at the 40th floor, able to walk without massive pain the next day (lol), etc!  


Over the next couple of months, we will continue to update you on our progress as we push ourselves physically and mentally.  We will also provide links  directly to the climb website, and other relevant info soon.  Thanks for checking in!