Climb ev'ry mountain

Climb ev'ry mountain. Search high and low. Follow ev'ry by-way. Ev'ry path you want to know.

At 66 years, I stood on the roof of Africa. A dream fulfilled, a moment I will carry in my heart forever. ⛰️❤️

Last September, I fulfilled a dream I had cherished for years: reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) via the Lemosho Route.

But this journey was about more than climbing a mountain. It was about challenging myself, discovering what I was capable of at 66, and experiencing firsthand what it means to invest in your physical and mental well-being.

And what an experience it was!

I reached the summit after climbing the final 1,054 meters in just six hours — the minimum time allocated for the final ascent. Throughout the entire track, I felt remarkably well. No altitude sickness, no muscle soreness, no cramps — not a single complaint! My oxygen saturation at the summit was 94%.

At every daily briefing, I rated my physical and mental condition a 10 out of 10. I felt strong, resilient and ready for the challenge. It was deeply rewarding to discover what my body and mind were capable of at this stage of my life.

And then came the moment I had worked so hard for.

After hours of climbing in the darkness and cold, step by step, I finally reached Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa. Standing there, at 5,895 metres above sea level, with the vast African landscape stretching out beneath me, was almost surreal. I had done it. I was there. I had turned a long-held dream into reality.

And suddenly, the emotions took over. Tears welled up in my eyes and rolled down my cheeks. Not tears of exhaustion or relief alone, but tears of profound gratitude. For a moment, words seemed inadequate. All I could feel was an overwhelming sense of gratitude for my body, my health, my determination and the opportunity to experience something so extraordinary.

At that summit, I felt more than just the joy of achievement. I felt deeply alive.

Grateful for the knowledge I have gained through Psycho-Neuro-Immunology (PNI) and Intermittent Living, which has helped me make conscious choices to support my health and vitality.

Grateful to Dr Leo Pruimboom for his vision, dedication and inspiration in establishing the educational institute that helps bring this scientific knowledge to others. (www.pruimboominstitute.com)

Grateful to our wonderful guides, porters and cook, whose care and support made this expedition possible.

And above all, deeply grateful for my physical and mental health, which made this journey possible.

This experience has strengthened my purpose in life even further: to share my knowledge, inspire others and encourage you to take an active role in your own health and vitality.

Because vitality is about so much more than living longer. It is about living well, feeling strong and continuing to pursue the things that make life meaningful — at every age.

Vitality is the foundation of health and a key to longevity.

And if standing on top of Kilimanjaro at 66 years has taught me anything, it is this: never stop dreaming, never stop investing in yourself, and never underestimate what you are capable of. ❤️⛰️