Hey Everyone,

We are climbing-up so that kids with HIV & AIDS can grow-up but we need your help!!

This June my brother Minhaal and I will be attempting to summit the snow draped slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Standing at an altitude of 19,340ft, Kilimanjaro is recognized as one of the seven continental giants and is the tallest free standing mountains in the world. It’s a definite must do for anyone claiming the status of a mountaineering enthusiast.

Our arduous but awe-inspiring climb is dedicated towards a crucial mission. In partnership with Peak 4 Poverty- a nonprofit organization that strives to uplift and eradicate the vicious cycle of poverty and AIDS in Tanzania- we have set a goal of raising $5,004. The funds raised will solely be used to provide education, healthcare, and nutrition support to six orphanages and schools in the region.

Approximately 22.5 million people are currently living with HIV & AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa making it the most infected region in the world. In Tanzania alone, there are roughly 1.4 million people suffering from the AIDS virus. Furthermore, according to a 2008 report by the United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS, there are on average 1 million children in Tanzania under the age of 17 that are orphans due to the AIDS pandemic.

We humbly appeal for participation in helping us achieve this monumental goal. Together we can empower these orphaned children to escape the self perpetual AIDS & poverty cycle, and achieve economic self sufficiency.

I’ll be providing a live blog of our climbing progress on a daily basis (if it’s possible) so that you all can walk this journey with us.

Thank-you for your prayers & support!

With Regards,

Imtiaz-Ali Kalyan

Saturday, June 26, 2010

DAY 1- Trekking The Kili Tropical Rainforest






Saturday, June 26th 2010

Today has been a beautiful day! We cleared entrance protocol at 11:30 AM at Machame Gate (altitude: 1800m) and have spent all afternoon hiking through the exotic and lush Machame Rainforest. Got our first sighting of the indigenous Blue Monkeys ! Arrived at our dest. for the night Machame campsite (alt: 3000m) at 7:00 PM.

After a sumptuous spaghetti dinner, we were finally rewarded with our first clear view of the Kibo Summit thanks to a transient opening in the clouds and a brightly waxing moon phase. The stars seem to be aligned in the heavens.
Looks like there's quite a-bit of ice at the summit. Tomorrow's going to be a long days hike to Shira Caves and the temp. is dipping fast so I'm going to call it a night!

more blogging possible tomorrow!

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