Dennis Shayo

I enjoyed my climb, but it was very challenging for me, due to my problems in accurately assessing depth of stairs and rocks, plus my compensated balance issues, due to hearing loss. I also had a viral infection in my lungs from South Africa, which became more problematic, the higher we climbed--it did zap some of my energy. My primary guide , CEO Dao (sp?) was fabulous--he really encouraged me to keep trying, and was always close by to offer his hand for stability--that gave me the confidence to keep going--even though I was literally terrified of some of the trails we had to travel over. I could not hve went as far as I did without his help. This was a test of endurance for me, and I did well, up to the end and final ascent--when my lungs finally gave out. I did the 7 day Machame route with my friend and 10 other people.. nice size for traveling together with All the CEO's including Dennis and climb staff, porters and cooks were awesome. If my girlfriend and I (both 65 and older) were feeling overwhelmed-- they offered different strategies to help us finish the daily trek including carrying our day packs and suggesting using energy gel supplement (which did help me!)