Dana here, executive director of Survivor Wellness. This is my story...thank you for reading, and for supporting Survivor Wellness.

I walked in the door of the '59 House' near the end of the pandemic to offer yoga and somatic movement therapy to the members of Survivor Wellness. 

The homes were nearly empty, with only our staunchest members meeting each Wednesday evening. Some attended the class I taught, so I joined the Wednesday Night Support Group weekly from Oct., 2021. Members welcomed me warmly, and taught me about life from the perspective and experience of survivors and caregivers.

In Jan., 2022, I stepped into the offices to rebuild the programming post-pandemic. The homes grew brighter and busier, with services and support gradually increasing.

In 2023, I began serving as executive director, to continue "bringing the houses back" to life, to visibility, to the logo and to the community.

During that time, we had a member with a stomach cancer diagnosis. He had survived a plane crash, and had the biggest smile, shared the greatest encouragement and had most courageous attitude even on his most painful days. 

"You're stronger than you think you are", he would say.

When he passed away in February, 2023, I took a snowy hike in his honor. I made a short video explaining "Why I Climb" for him. 

That became the genesis for this campaign. 

I climbed for Darryl. I climb for our members. I climb for those who are struggling, who are suffering, who are in pain. I climb for hope, for joy, for purpose, for inspiration.

Who do you climb for? 

I do this campaign - as a hiker and as the organizer of the Summit - for those who need to know that someone cares.

Thank you for walking beside me.

*Want to hike together? Make a donation to receive an invitation!

Thank you for supporting this WHY I CLIMB campaign, and for supporting Survivor Wellness.

Warmly,

Dana Levy, Executive Director of Survivor Wellness

PS-Just after the Summit, I’m celebrating the start of my 6th decade. 60 seems like a great number…