Fund-raising for the Horn of Africa

By Isabelle Privé

The generosity of SCD employees was again in evidence last Thursday when we held a fund-raising activity in aid of the Red Cross and, through them,  famine victims in the Horn of Africa. Over 12 million people are affected by this tragedy and, as we'll be in Africa next year, we felt particularly moved to do our part, as part of Team Kili-2012's voluntary programme.
A half and half draw and sales from our Kili-2012 Corner Shop brought in over $500 which we'll be donating to the Red Cross. WOW!!

Our stand had a very African and Kili atmosphere, with African music from Philippe Noel and a photo-video presentation of Team Kili-2012. Our cabinet maker Pierre had made a superb replica of the wooden sign that we'll be able to touch next year at 5895 meters. We also wore our attractive shirts bearing the logo designed by Viky Pomerleau. Thank you to all these people. We particularly appreciated the generous offer of help from non-members Viky and Philippe.

This event also served to introduce our members and our project to SCD employees who were perhaps unfamiliar with the project and with our mission to promote health, social responsibility, teamwork and physical activity.

Thanks to our employer who allowed us to put on this fund-raising event in aid of the Horn of Africa, and contributed to it by their support. It was a perfect example of team-work. Well done!

THANK YOU!

Translated by Pamela Gauvin

An Unforgettable Race

By Isabelle Privé

What a day we had last Sunday when several Team Kili-2012 members, ex members and friends ran the Montreal 10 km Marathon.

We all had to outdo ourselves and overcome obstacles. Only 2 months ago, André told me that he just couldn't run for long. Not only did he run the 10 km but he's now hooked on jogging!

Rosanna's challenge was to run 10 km without walking! She started by running 10 minutes, then 20, then 30 and, finally, a very proud woman passed the finish line saying "I did it, even if it was hard, I never stopped".

Manon too surpassed herself. The day before, she wondered why on earth she had signed up for the 10 km. Well, she succeeded brilliantly.

Nathalie was quite overcome with pride and satisfaction when she reached the finishing line and I'll never forget how her face lit up.

As for me, in the space of an hour, I think I went through all the emotions. Pleasure at seeing thousands of people in the streets. Doubt, when I felt a pain in my knee in the middle of the race. Fear that I wouldn't finish, telling myself repeatedly to keep going a little further, not to give up. Exhaustion when the end is in sight and you think you can't run another step. The final sprint which takes all you've got. And, finally, the joy, the immense joy at having succeeded, at having finished, at having beaten my personal best. And the happiness in seeing your friends finishing too!

We'll never forget our feelings that day. And now? Well, 3 days later, my friends had a little jog during their lunch hour. Our friend Sylvie who walked her first race has taken up jogging. Next year, she wants to run!

That's the magic of getting caught up in physical activity and fitness. It's catching! You can be sure we'll go on spreading the Good News.

Team Kili-2012 would like to offer their deepest sympathy to the family of the athlete who died during the demi-marathon on Sunday. Our thoughts are with you. We must make the most of each moment. Who knows what life has in store for us.

*****

Translated by Pamela Gauvin

A Morning at Accueil Bonneau - and - Bravo Catherine

By Isabelle Privé

Last Saturday 4 Kili members - Manon M., Nathalie, Manon F. and Rosanna with her daughter -  had arranged to meet at Accueil Bonneau to help with the preparation and service of about 480 meals. After a short visit round the premises, they made sure that everything was ready to welcome the needy people who would be coming to eat what could well be the only meal of their day. They include the homeless as well as families, students and old people.

The Kili members were impresssed by the organisation and efficiency in the preparation and service of the meals. Starting at 8h00 in the morning, volunteers prepare the meal and serve it to over 450 people. At midday, it's all over, including the washing-up!

A return visit is planned in November to help with this essential work. Poverty spares no-one and it's always rewarding for those, like us, who are among society's more privileged, to give some of their time.

Thanks to our hosts for their welcome and for allowing us to have this unforgettable experience.

Bravo Catherine

We'd like to congratulate our Kili team member Catherine who took part this weekend in the Défi-vélo 24 hours in aid of the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Catherine was part of the SCD (Service de Cartes Desjardins) relay team who, between them, cycled for 48 hours to raise money for this foundation which allows sick children to live their dream.

Bravo Catherine and all the team for having succeeded in this demanding feat for such an excellent cause!

Translated by Pamela Gauvin

Less Than a Year

by Isabelle Privé

As Andre pointed out in the previous message, we are now less than a year from the start of our expedition. Next year, at this time, we'll be living our adventure to the full and maybe even near the top.
When you think about it, one year may seem long .. or very short! Let's take a look at what we have to do before the big departure.

1. Signing the contract with ExPe; This step will be made this week or, at the latest, in mid-October! The signing of the contract (accompanied by the deposit) marks a significant milestone in our adventure. This is our formal commitment to the Kilimanjaro adventure!

2. Delivery of a health certificate, signed by a doctor, certifying that we can handle high altitudes. We have until December to return the form to Mathieu (EXPE). So that means we all need to see a doctor for a check-up.
3. There's a long vaccination list: tetanus, polio, measles, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, diphtheria, yellow fever, malaria, cholera. Hours of fun! I can't wait to eat all those bugs... mmmmm!
4. Passport. Make sure it's up to date, or, like me, get a new one (no, not everyone has a passport).
5. Equipment. Most of us have our hiking boots. It's a start. We also need: a warm coat, underwear, socks, sweaters ... all without cotton! Sleeping bag for -20 -30, backpack, water bottles, We don't have the list yet but you get the picture ...
6. Training, as a group - fifteen Sundays climbing the steps of Mount Royal are to come, a winter climb of Mont-Saint-Hilaire (to acclimate to the cold). The ascent of Mount Jefferson and part of Mount Washington next summer. Individually - well, for some it's jogging, gym for others. Up the stairs to the office, swimming, walking, cycling, different races ... in short, everything you can do to keep fit.
7. Financing: twenty financing activities - groceries, Casino night, gourmet dinner, chocolate production, Kili Fixes for afternoon craves.
8. Volunteering: we'll continue to give our time throughout the year to Accueil Bonneau, Hôpital Sainte-Justine Children's Miracle Network, Run for the Cure .... our mandate is at least one volunteer activity per month.
When you look at the list, one year, it doesn't seem long at all ... it looks very very short!


Translated by Pamela Gauvin

Just a Thought

 Good morning.
Just a thought like that ...

don't know if you noticed something ...

... take a good look on the blog ...

... you see?

I leave you a little more time ...

... I give you a hint. Watch the countdown.

IT IS LESS THAN A YEAR!

... Just a thought like that. Good weekend to all. ;-)

From André Lachapelle