| Cape Coral couple Robin and Steve Catron will attempt to tackle one of the world’s most dangerous and difficult treks, when they travel to Africa on an expedition to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.
On average, less than 50% of all climbers who aim to reach “the roof of Africa” actually make it there.
To better their chances of success, the Catrons have enlisted former Children’s Hospital Administrator Mike Ellis. In 2000, Ellis made the 19,300-foot climb with a group of Southwest Floridians to raise $400,000 for the Children’s Hospital Emergency Room.
“The last 1,000 feet is step, step, stop. Breathe, breathe, breathe. That’s how difficult it is,” Ellis recalled. “Conquering Kili is a life-changing experience and it puts you in a special club.”
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The trio will meet for the first time on Sunday, in Cape Harbour’s Marina South. Realmark, the developer of Cape Harbour, has made their 15-story luxury high-rise stairwell available for the Catron’s to simulate their impending climb up Tanzania’s noted mountain.
“We are so excited to meet Mike and learn what we’re facing,” said Robin, an account executive with ABC-7 television, who chose this journey to celebrate her upcoming 50th birthday. “His first-hand knowledge will be invaluable.”
“I am thrilled to share my experience, if it can help them succeed,” said Ellis. “Making it to the top is quite a feat. If they reach the peak, it will be one of the high-points in their lives.”
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