| | CF Foundation Volunteers Tackle 22-Mile “Xtreme Hike” to Support the Fight Against CF
Hiker Felly Wheeler and two-dozen courageous Massachusetts/Rhode Island Chapter volunteers rose to the challenge of traversing more than 22 miles through the rugged terrain of Mt. Greylock, all for the CF cause.
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July 11, 2012
This June, two-dozen hikers traversed more than 22 miles through the rugged terrain of Mt. Greylock in the Berkshire Hills of Massachusetts — summiting the highest point in the state at 3,491 feet — in the CF Foundation’s inaugural Xtreme Hike Mt. Greylock.
Rising above the idyllic surroundings, the courageous hikers witnessed dramatic views and a brilliant sunrise from the Stony Ledge, while raising $90,000 in support of the Foundation’s search for a cure.
“The hike was very challenging, and the climbs and descents were very rewarding, too,” said seasoned hiker Jordon McMichael.
Volunteer Trail Blazer Bill Brodnitzki added, “If the CF researchers have half as much determination as our Xtreme Hikers, we’ve got it made!”
An Exciting Trek to Support the Search for a Cure
Supported by volunteer Trail Blazers, hikers began their adventure at 4:30 a.m. with their headlamps lighting their way — and the long trek was filled with determined steps, breathtaking views and, of course, a few surprises.
Hikers raised $90,000 to support the CF Foundation’s search for a cure at the inaugural Xtreme Hike Mt. Greylock.
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Shortly after the first five hikers crossed the finish line around 3:15 p.m., a storm with lightening, rain and thunder rolled through, and remaining hikers were quickly accounted for and moved to safety. Everyone made it to the finish line a little wet and with sore feet, where they were greeted with cheers, high-five’s, hugs and a cold beverage.
“The dedicated hikers and volunteers who took on this challenge were inspired by families affected by cystic fibrosis,” said Pamela Spitzer, executive director of the Massachusetts/Rhode Island Chapter. “We are grateful to have them on our team as we work to put an end to CF.”
| The Massachusetts/Rhode Island Chapter would like to thank the remarkable father and son team: |
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| The courageous hikers and dedicated volunteers: |
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- Jane Armstrong
- Steve Armstrong
- Ben Awtrey
- Lise Baillargeon
- Amos Beason
- Kate Beaupre
- Matt Beaupre
- Bill Brodnitzki
- Tom Cote
- Heather Crowe
- Chris Fisco
- Cindy Geyer
- Patricia Harvey
- Eva Jack
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- Jenica Leo
- Jordon McMichael
- Evan Merriam
- Dennis O'Donnell
- Kasey Oestreicher
- Jessie Pion
- Deb Rivkin
- Fran Rivkin
- Colleen Smith
- Matt Soares
- Irene Terranova
- Heather Vigeveno
- Felly Wheeler
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| Corporate sponsors: |
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- Thomson Safaris – Trail Sponsor
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| And others who helped make the event a success: |
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- The Awtrey Family
Ann Brodnitzki Gerry Brodnitzki
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- Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
Terry McGovern North Adams Ambulance
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