A family of four from Kerala’s Kottayam has fulfilled a long-cherished dream when they touched the summit of the 5895-metre-high Mount Kilimanjaro. Susan Josy Chambannoor, her husband Josy and their daughters Cherin and Neha proved that age or physical attributes didn’t matter when it came to chasing a dream. The family was accompanied by their close friend Satheesh.
After trekking for six days through rugged terrain from October 12 – 18, the family successfully reached Uhuru Peak, known as the roof of Africa. This was not merely a trek for them, but a grand culmination of meticulous planning, hard work and excellent teamwork.
Overcoming the challenges
It wasn’t easy to overcome the challenges posed by Africa’s terrain and weather. The rainforests’ moisture, steep rocks, and bone-chilling cold weather were among the challenges faced by the family. It was indeed a difficult task for the group that had three people over 60 to conquer Kilimanjaro.
The group got tired as they neared the summit, but they pushed themselves, especially on the last day, to finally conquer the iconic mountain. They had begun the trek at 11 on the previous night. The temperature had plummeted to below zero degrees, oxygen levels had dropped, and the trekking path was covered in thick slabs of ice. The streak of light from their headlamps led the way as the family encouraged and supported each other.
The family was showered with golden sunshine as they stepped onto the summit of Uhuru Peak. Photo: Special Arrangement
“Our minds had begun telling, ‘This is it… not anymore, ‘ when we reached Stella Point. But when I saw my family staying strong for each other, my focus shifted from tiredness to our aim. We became each other’s strength and headed forward, cutting through the chilly weather to conquer the final lap,” recalls Susan.
The power of planning
This adventurous trip had been a family dream for over a year. They credit their friend Satheesh for meticulously planning everything. His farsightedness had helped the group achieve their dream without worrying about anything else. They could focus only on their physical strength and endurance, which would help them overcome the challenges. The family says that they couldn’t have achieved this feat on their own and lauds the guides for their efficiency and professionalism. “We are grateful to the professionals at the Altessa Trekking. Their 32-member team helped and guided us safely. Their service and encouragement were priceless,” notes Susan.
Mount Kilimanjaro is 5895 metres high. Photo: Special Arrangement
The sunrise
The family was showered with golden sunshine as they stepped onto the summit of Uhuru Peak. Susan says that she teared up as she was overwhelmed by the mesmerising beauty of the reddish morning sky. “A dream that we had been nurturing for years, the meticulous planning for months and the hard trekking that lasted for six days, all melted into that exhilarating moment. Two generations bonded by love and supported by a fabulous team didn’t just climb a mountain; they set a tradition. This journey was a reminder that nothing can stop you when you face challenges with the support of your loved ones,” says Susan. The family who recently returned to India hopes their trip will inspire others to face the challenges in their lives with confidence and strength.
