SA - spinal muscular atrophy. At first glance, just using the term SA doesn't tell anyone anything. It is only when you get to know the subject, explain things, and meet someone with this condition that you begin to understand what it is all about. We would like to present to you the amazing story of two guys who are active bloggers writing about mountains and travel. Łukasz Kocewiak and Szymon Żoczek decided to climb the highest mountain in North America - Denali - dedicating the ascent to the children of SA. Someone will ask, but why SA, why did they make such an effort and why did they climb this mountain in particular? - you will find all the answers in the interview conducted with Łukasz and Szymon by our editorial colleague (privately also a mountain and travel blogger) Katarzyna Irzeńska. Have a cup of tea and read on :)
What did you feel at the summit? How much were you there?
Luke: The moment of just getting to the summit is the most exciting. That's when all the worries and inconveniences go into the background. "Oh, it's already here?" - was my first thought. I was surprised at the beginning, and then euphoria took over the whole body. There is only the summit, me and unbridled joy. Extreme emotions that I would have found difficult to experience anywhere else. I was running, screaming, gasping, snotting, crying, panting... It has to be experienced for yourself. The ascent itself is quite strenuous and it is difficult to talk about the pleasure derived from the effort and the arduous acclimatisation process. This is what the summit is all about, the culmination of weeks of preparation and a great deal of bodily work.
Szymon: We were on the summit for quite a long time, about 25min. It is certainly the most special feeling, which is hard to describe in words. An accumulation of emotions - joy, happiness, emotion. Something incredible. I was very happy that together with Luke Dus and Peppa we were on a mountain that not everyone allows to climb.
Why is it important to raise awareness among the public about SA?
Luke: Because life is not just about making money, fulfilling selfish whims and focusing solely on consumerism. We all make up society and each of us can, and should, add something from ourselves. I believe that on the path of progress in the future, diseases like SA will be a thing of the past.
Simon: So that families who are struggling with these diseases have more support. The more people know about it, the more chance there will be people who can help in some way ...and so that we are more aware of what is going on around us.
Are you planning any further expeditions?
Lukasz: I realise that every next expedition will require me to make a greater commitment, i.e. preparation, time and expenses. My current focus is on enjoying the small activities of everyday life and promoting my first book, 'Aconcagua. "Aconcagua. In the Shadow of the Snow Ranger'(www.aconcagua.kocewiak.eu). However, I think the time will soon come when an expedition needs to be undertaken. Time will tell :)
photo: A page from a journey
Simon: The high mountains are such a magical place that you want to go back there. So far, my head is full of plans. Now it's time to put it together, figure something out and act!
Thank you very much for the interview and I wish you much success!
Łukasz: Thanks to Kasia and the whole team at Forumneurologiczne.pl. You are also doing your bit to spread awareness of SA :)
Szymon: Thank you very much. And remember, it's worth it to Never Stop Dreaming!
