Throughout the months of June, July and August 2009, I was fortunate enough to spend time in the Fijian Islands, mainly on a small island almost directly west of Viti Levu. The island of Gau, pronounced “now” taught me many new things. I had the opportunity to stay with a mixed group of professionals, students, and travel or scuba diving enthusiasts for a term of 4 weeks. In this time, we became a small family. Our camp had no running water, electricity, sturdy structures, etc. It was rustic, but we called it home, or for those familiar “Naviavia”. With the lack of normal everyday amenities, we surely all grew to know each other quick and became close to family on our stay.
Lisa Siddiqi, a young lawyer, originally from Wales, who works and resides in London, was among the many wonderful people I had the chance to meet and learn from. Lisa,much like myself, has a strong wanderlust for travel along with the people you meet, the things you learn and the amazing stories you tend to rack up along the way.
On her second trip to Africa, Lisa will be participating in a Mount Kilimanjaro Charity hike. Mt. Kilimanjaro, at 5,893 meters or 19,334 ft is the fourth highest freestanding mountain in the world. Climbing can take up to 7 days and carries with it the risk of many different types of altitude ailments.
At the age of 48, my grandmother was diagnosed with Breast cancer, and through the help of family, friends and willpower fought through it. The past two years, my sister has helped the cause and walked in a three day Breast cancer walk helping raise money for the Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure”. In support of the fight against cancer, and the many men, women and children of all creeds and colors who fight daily, I chose to write this brief note. Prior to the climb, Lisa is trying to raise money that will be donated to cancer research, as well as for children with leukemia, and Help for Heroes. It is with great enthusiasm and pleasure that I offer my support to Lisa, and I wholeheartedly encourage anyone who is considering supporting her to do so in the name of those who will benefit from her cause.
Written By : Steve Funk