A Higher Calling

I'd like to introduce you to one remarkable woman, Tammy.
Her story is one that I promised to share, as she is the embodiment of unyielding courage and spirit - a true inspiration to me.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Tammy for many years as her daughter, Stefanie and I went to school together. (Her father, coincidentally was the surgeon who removed my tonsils at age 17 - how's that for small town life?!)
Tammy and her husband Greg didn't treat retirement as an end to a career, rather an opportunity to challenge themselves physically and spiritually.
After already climbing Mount Kilimanjaro together the husband and wife team traveled across the world visit Tibet, tour the Himalayas, continuing their passion for adventure and a touching journey of spiritual enlightenment.
The Himalayas would be the last climb for Greg as he passed away from complications due to elevation sickness.
Some lose a loved one and can barely find the strength to continue functioning as they did before. Some grab a hold of themselves by the bootstraps (literally in Tammy's case) and take control of life again with conviction and discover uncommon strength to carry on despite unspeakable odds.
Tammy lost her husband before attempting to reach base camp at Mount Everest. Before she could find a moment to grieve, to collect herself in the foreign surroundings, she had to bring her husband home. A stranger in a strange land would be an understatement for a woman alone, surrounded by unforgiving terrain, freezing temperatures, and foreign language.
...But I tell you , this is no ordinary woman...
Why is she such an inspiration to me?
Tammy was able to work with locals, put her husband to rest, and comfort her family. I would have expected her to feel like holing up at home for the next few years asking "Why?"
Instead, she took her story to a public forum and with her climbing equipment in tow, retold her adventures of visiting the world's greatest peaks with her husband always at her side.
Bravo to you Tammy for continuing to educate us about the exciting life you and your husband shared side by side, step by step around the world together. You are truly an inspiration to those of us who have lost and grieved. I like to think Greg's spirit soars above the peaks of Mount Everest, smiling and looking down on his wife as she begins to plan her next adventure - and she'll never be alone.
Thank you Stefanie for posting updates about your parents, their unbelievable accomplishments and your mother's big heart. It's easy to see how where your independent and loving nature comes from.
-H.