Independently sold at Kilimanjaroforhope.com or Amazon, 2003

This is a story of dedication, determination and hope; twenty-eight people, virtual strangers to each other, come together for an unusual fundraiser – a climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Each hiker must secure at least $5,000 from friends, family and businesses – most of which will be used to build a pediatric ward for a children’s hospital in SW Florida and some of which will be used to help a center for street kids in Tanzania. As the hikers struggle on the mountain, Hope, an infant born 12 weeks prematurely battles for her life back at the hospital. A departure from my usual style, (normally I hire a professional crew) this is a very personal journey – told first person and shot like reality TV revealing the raw emotions and pain and suffering of fellow climbers. It’s an intimate look at several main characters, some who make it to the summit and some who don’t. Their story is inter-cut with the plight of children back at the hospital battling their own obstacles. After our hike, we visited the Mkombozi Center in Moshi, Tanzania where we delivered supplies and toys to disadvantaged children. Mkombozi takes orphans and run-aways off the street and gives them a safe haven, education and socialization skills that help them lead productive lives as adults. Our trek was important not just to children in Florida, but half-way around the world it made a difference in the lives of Tanzanian children.

Directed, Photographed and Written by Holly Stadtler.