Reflection on Mark’s Adventures

I am very excited about the article you are writing in regards to Mark’s adventure. I felt somewhat fragmented with my responses to you when you called this last week and would like an opportunity to expand a little more on your inquiry.

When asked how I feel about Mark climbing Mt. Everest, I reflect on the person Mark is and our lives together. First of all, Mark has always been a good provider and very supportive of his family and our endeavors. He is very selfless – always putting his family first. He’s my number one fan, cheerleader and coach all in one. He’s a rock - a person of tremendous strength both mentally and physically. He works steadfast towards a goal with precision and perfection. He’s a good analytical problem solver with more than one plan or solution when things go awry.

Mark has always been fascinated with climbing and felt there would come a time in life when he would have opportunities to be a great mountain climber. Our involvement with the National Ski Patrol opened up those doors. So, once our kids were grown and gone from home, he began climbing with some of our comrades from the patrol and joined the Mazamas – a Portland based climbing organization. At first, he climbed some of our Pacific Northwest peaks – Mt. Hood, Mt. Baker, Mt. Shasta, Mt. Rainier, and Mt. Shuksan but found himself yearning for other challenges and began to include the Seven Summits in his climbing resume. In the climbing world, Mark is well known for his strength and encouraging nature in assisting others to successfully summit. Mark is a wise and skilled climber who uses good judgement.

So, when asked how I feel about him climbing Mt. Everest – I ask, “how could I deny him the opportunity to fulfill his dream?” I rely on my faith as he goes with my prayers and blessings. I hold him in my thoughts all day and at night I rest with peace.

Please give me a call this week before your article goes to print and I will give you the latest report from Mark.

Appreciatively,

Valerie Luscher