Day 3 - October 8th
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Though I’m missing people at home, my gorgeous girlfriend who’s birthday it is today (Happy Birthday!!! X), one of my granddads who was ill in hospital when I left (get well soon Taid) and the rest of my family and friends, 3 days gone and 9 action packed days ahead where literally anything could be thrown at us!!! Today, I was amongst the final group to arrive in Cusco where we were greeted at our hotel, the Eco Inn, by the rest of the fellow trekker’s who all seem to be raring to go and set for any challenges that lie ahead (all except my poor room/tent mate, Tom Grimshaw, who arrived safely yesterday…. unfortunately for him his luggage didn’t!)
Today was used, by most, as a day to find our feet at altitude and see a few of the sights that Cusco has to offer. The majority of the production crew went off to get footage for podcast number 1, it was great getting out and about and seeing what Cusco is all about…The indoor markets, fantastic buildings, the sights and all the Characters’ that are out and about whether it be the kids running around with huge smiles on their faces or the crazy taxi drivers who I’m sure wouldn’t even stop to let their own mothers cross the road!
Having been one of the team that went to Nepal last year I felt a little more at ease in getting prepared for this years journey as I had a rough Idea what to expect and I knew who I’d be working with which last year wasn’t the case! The work that goes on behind the cameras is unbelievable, so I’m not surprised at all to see the amazing job that’s been done on the website or see how well organised everything has been thanks to the two Shannon’s. Credit goes to Stash and Damien too, I’d forgotten just how crazy they are. Now I’m sat in my room writing this as Tom and Alex are put the finishing touches to the first podcast, which will shortly be launched into cyberspace for everyone to see.
Earlier today we had a meeting, which gave everybody the opportunity to get to know each other a little better and learn the reason’s why we’re all here. Each person has a different story with one underlying similarity and that this, we have all been touched by cancer.
There we’re many tragic stories being told as well as stories of monumental bravery and courage. From listening to them all, happy or sad, for most a lasting happy memories could be thought of. Memories were mentioned of celebration’s, a trait gained from a lost one or a particular happy moment in time, all of which I’m sure will never be forgotten. These are the reasons this group of people are gathered here and about to embark on this journey, apart from raising money, we’re together to celebrate lives of lost loved ones or celebrating being lucky enough to have beaten cancer or knowing somebody that has.
…it dawns on me that everybody around me, the trekkers, cancer survivors, production crew and musicians who all have had they’re part in raising thousands of dollars/pounds for the Love Hope Strength foundation are passionate people, they believe in the cause, they believe in getting a message across that, until a cure is found, cancer is out there to be fought and the more people who are doing so, the better. The more people trying to make a difference the better.
From my own experience of cancer having a granddad that survived bowel cancer. He was diagnosed when I was 16 and now has been cancer free for close to 10 years. He’s the youngest 78 I know, lives life to full and makes the most of every second. My close friend Mike Peters who when diagnosed with CLL was so positive from the word go, he went straight into combat mode to fight his illness. I was blown away by his determination to overcome the obstacles that cancer would throw at him and working alongside him while undergoing his treatment I was the healthy 24 year old that found himself struggling to keep up with his guitar hero who had cancer.
From the events that have unfolded today and today’s meeting and getting to know everybody a little better to say I’m looking forward to the rest of this adventure is an understatement.
Oli Powell
October 8, 2008
Cusco, Peru
My warmest thoughts are with you all as you begin this wondrous and spiritual trek.
To our fearless leaders, Shannon and James for all the effort and positive energy you selflessly share with so many.
To George Devanney, Alex C. and Oli for your never ending talents, fantastic sense of humour, and relentless commitment.
To Katrina, Jackie, Lyn, Nese,Tracey and Mercedes for flying the flag of our Alarm family.
Your friends on both sides of the ocean are so proud of you and we’re behind you 100%.
And to Mike and Jules in the name of all those whom you both give Love, Hope, Strength and Inspiration to each and every day.
Wishing you all a fabulous journey and with you in Spirit…
xx Lily
First podcast had me in tears already, the group feeling is back stronger than last time so use that power! Still gutted not to be there but happy not to be sleeping in a tent tonight mind you.
Love to all
Kris
Dateline 9th october. Time 12.48BST
So I’m basically a day ahead it seems in the UK when I post these so you guys are either asleep or aboiut to surface to face another day, looking at your itinery its the final day before the walking starts .. check them walking boots out, pack the waterproofs, get the wooly alpaca socks at the ready … Have fun at todays gig and hopefully we’ll see some of that on the podcast coming.
Looking at the pics its a big team out there this time, spotting a few familiar faces amongst them, nice to see you’ve landed LynTheAlarmTourGuide …
So back here in the UK it’s another glorious sunny day, the big football news from last night was that the mighty Rotherham did stuff Leeds in that cup game 4-2 where Jean was stewarding but keeping well away from the Leeds fans!. However I was was at one of the strangest gigs I’ve ever been to - Amanda Palmer (vocalist with Dresden Dolls) completely barking but a fascinating if surreal night of piano, cello, accordian and theatricals.
Enjoy your last day of “rest” and good luck for that first 7.5mile trek tomorrow …
Ian, Jean & The Cats
Danny, Our prayers are with you! We are so proud of you and all you have done to make it there! We love you! Brian, Missie and the crew!
Hi, Tony! I saw your happy face on a picture from today’s posting. I love you!!
Jennifer
Hey Merc, it’s me again; Anna, you know the person who’s on the computer for at least 10 hours a day, but hey it’s my job. I was thrilled to hear from you and happy to know things are going well. I just saw the pictures and they are beautiful and very colorful. I think I should have gone with you, as by looking at the pictures, I know I would have fit in very well with the locals. Take care of yourself and talk to you later. Love, Anna
Hey Bub! Good luck out there. Saw that u arrived safely. Stay safe, we love u & see you soon!
Love you, Didi, Greg & Brianna
Vickie,
Just want you to know that we are thinking of you on your journey and sending our prayers for you and your fellow trekkers to have a fun safe trip. Can’t wait to hear all about the fun we know you will have.
Love,
Lisa, Bobbye, Janine, Sheila & Pat!
hola mi hijo del alma,he leido todos los mensajes que te han puesto y ahora yo te envio uno,te quiero ,te adoro,y te llevo siempre en mi corazon,estoy contigo todos los dias de este mundo, siguiendo tu recorrido,se fuerte y no desmayes nunca,te quiere mucho tu madre,
con amor:luz,y bendiciones
Hey Nicholas Harper
Do you realise you’ve been there nearly 3 days now and I haven’t nagged you once about interviews - ha! Go on laugh at that!
Music-News set a news release live yesterday for you rockin Peru. And we’ve got people spreading the word around MySpace and even (dare I say it) Facebook on various pages.
http://www.music-news.com/ShowNews.asp?nItemID=21590
We’re all really enjoying reading the ‘Daily Llama’ news with our breakfast here in the UK, and thinking of you.
Love Linn (aka the Nagger, lol!)
Hey trekkers, fantastic start to the podcasts today! I think I got something in my eye during that one…
Tracey, fellow Duranie, we met in the Myspace ether, I’m sending you a bunch of e-hugs after hearing your story! Looking forward to seeing your pic giving your doc the bird
Hulloooooo to Katrina and Nick - yay you’ve arrived! I almost felt like waving at the screen during the podcast LOL. It’s still as odd as it was last year to see everyone thousands of miles away, almost as it happens… but it’s strangely reassuring
Luv Px
Hi Michelle!
Did the Pink suitcase make it to Peru? I hope you are having a wonderful time. I’ll be thinking about you while you are gone. Enjoy the experience!
Chip
Hello Meggiekins! I love you and miss you. The girls and I have been snuggling in your bed (because it’s waaayy more comfortable than mine). It’s supposed to rain during the PhLiz wedding, but I’m gettin my hair done anyway. Cuz I’m a LADY!!! hahaha
No news on Aunt Barbara, so I think all is well. Love you! (Hi colleen and Aden and Elan and Shannon and all the Denver peeps.)-Vicki, Zsa Zsa, & Eva
Hi Vic & Julie,
I bet you two are having a sensory overload! I did talk to your mom & told her of your safe arrival. Lots of folks are sending their thoughts, love, and prayers, I’m one of them!
Billy Bob
Hi Laine! Last night I was driving in the car listening to 107.1 on the radio and they played “You’re an Ocean” by FASTBALL! After the song, the radio guy said “Everyone should check out http://www.perurocks.org b/c Fastball is there hiking with a bunch of cool folks to raise money to fight cancer!” How cool is that! And you know what? I tried calling in to say “My sister is on that trip too!” but I got a busy signal. (If it was Delilah, she would’ve totally picked up!) HAVE FUN AND SAY HI TO FASTBALL!! Love you! S
Hi Tracey(irish1),
We’re with you in spirit girl, take it all the way to the top!
Love you,
Darcy and the DDM girls
Tracey,
Has it been four days already? Hope you are having the time of your life and I can’t wait to hear about it. Hugs…Dana
Jim, greetings from Jeff, Jean, Jerry Scaturo and all City employees in Rahway! I hope our summer hike got you in shape. Best wishes to you, George and the UC gang and all hikers. I’ve been humming “68 Guns” by the Alarm all week at work!
Michelle,
You made it! Now starts the real adventure. I’m following you every step of the way! Thank you for doing this.
Love,
Beanie
Tracey,
Can’t wait to see you flippin’ the bird when you get to Machu Pichu! You ROCK!!! You are missed in NTW land.
Love, Danielle
Tracey,
You go, you amazing girl!
You are an inspiration,
Macy
Tracey,
I can’t wait to see that pic! We’re all thinking of you and sending our love.
Hugs & kisses,
Stacey
Shannon, Molly & Erin,
Great to see my “babies” setting off on your Excellent Adventure. Please bring home the little girl with the llama for Thanksgiving. I’ll buy a new flag for the occasion, and I hear llama tastes just like turkey. Erin, be a good girl and keep on lip-syncing. Very proud of y’all…..GO PHILLIES!
Love, Dad
Vickie, It was interesting to see the pictures of your fellow trekkers and imagine the fun you will have getting to know such a diverse group.
I watched Robin Roberts’ breast cancer story on Nightline last night. Not being a morning TV watcher, I was unaware of her journey. She did a great job of sharing a positive story and how important support is from one’s friends along the way. She told the story honestly but without drama and pity. Another survivor to applaud!
Thank you again for climbing for us and for countless ones who don’t have the medical support that Robin and I were blessed with.
Vaya con Dios, Nancy
Hi James, Heather, Jaime, and trekkers,
I am hopeful that you all can feel the Love Hope Strength and prayers from your loved ones as well as from your community. For example, my niece, Heather’s cousin, Savannah, has sent emails regarding your journey to her sixth grade classmates and those classmates have been sending out your web address to neighboring schools. Yay!
The journal entries and photots posted are wonderful; one of my favorites is the little girl with the llama.
God’s speed to y’all.
Wendy
Hey Merc!! I was surprised to hear from you. very cool indeed. I feel like a spy peeking in on your trip when I look at the pictures..ha ha. It’s cool though. Anyways , you’re in my prayers for a safe journey. Take care and keep trekking.. xoxo Sue
Hi Mercedes,
How are you doing out there? I hope you’re in good spirits and the weather is doing its part to hold up while on your walk. Godspeed! Love, Marge
Hello my fellow Everest trekkers…and all of the new and remarkable people joining this year. Have a great trek and PLEASE don’t let Jim be a “whiney little bitch”(those are his words).
Jim, front of the pack at least one day this year buddy!! I love you brother!
Dan
hi oli hi to all you fantastic people just read your pod cast as usual you have redused me to tears! will be addicted to reading all about you all yet again as i did last year i wish you all well lots of love to you all and mike xxx take care!
Paul we are all proud of you. What a great cause and a great adventure.
Donna, Lisa, Jon, Rakesh, Terrell
To all treckers,
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You are on a wonderful, amazing journey. Bless you all!
‘Tunia, (Hee Hee Hee).
News from the Chicago Front…. Astro aced his class again today, but as for me, I need to learn my left hand from my right hand so I can guide him through the course better. He’s amazing… Me? So So.
(I have to stop doing his class after shift: 6 after midnight. I’m surprised I knew who my dog was, let alone right from left after a night like that.)
I got an email from Marge and Marshall. You would believe he’s now surfing YouTube??? !!!! I’ve created a monster with the AirCard!
I saw Denise last night and she says the grandson is doing great. She’s every bit the proud grandma.
I’m a zombie today, but tomorrow I’m gonna go to your crib and watch a few episodes of West Wing with Cisco. Beware the Furminator!!!
The pictures look amazing. I am with you in spirit. Say HI to the llamas for me.
Kerry
Suerte, Salud y felicidades a todos mis amigos Jules, Mike, Ollie and Mr James Chipp. The photos are amazing it look stunning I’m so jealous Your doing a great thing. Hope you have a wonderful time but stay safe ,see you when you get love Ruthie xxxx
Vic & Julie,
Not only does your experience sound exciting but also rewarding! Please try to take it all in and just think what a life experience it is - Doggone it, I miss you though.
Love you,
Billy Bob
Hey Mom (Kathy) we are thinking and praying for you! XO DS
Hello Kathy. Thinking alot about you these days. I am checking on you everyday! Go Girl! Luv, LC
hello trekkers,
prestatyn calling,ihope you all have a
fantastic time as im sure that you all
deserve it.oli im so impressed with your
log yesterday ,where did you learn all
those big words !!i hope the sun shines
on all of you,love to all especialy you
oli and mr & mrs p xxx
GREG
Hey Jules! Hope you are holding up okay - knowing you, I know you are! Just think my friend, in 5 short weeks our butts will be on the beach!! Woo Hoo!! God bless, and big hugs! D
thanks to u all - i thought of u today during my run when i wanted to just walk up the hill - i thought if they can climb a mountain then i can run up this little hill - as much as dallas or actually plano can have a hill anyway!!?! lovehopestrength to u all as u start off on this amazing adventure - tetia
Hi David,
We are thinking of you every step of the way. Your nephews, Nicholas and Francisco are excited about your adventure and are watching the groups progress. Love mom and dad
Tracey!!! I’ve been computer MIA for a while, but just wanted to wish you the best! I hope you’re having the time of your life!!xoxoMarlena
Wishing Mike and all the trekkers an amazing journey. May you be safe every step of the way. Your inspirational message of Love, Hope & Strength continues to touch people around the world.
Alex, it was great to speak with you again at Jesse’s show this past weekend and we are sending some PMA your way. From “Everest Rocks” to “Peru Rocks” we look forward to another beautiful, heartfelt film.
Regina & Joe
Damien, I was told by this man Abel who was from Machu Pichu to put the cocoa leaves between your teeth before you climb !
Hi Foley Girls!!!
Thanking about you! Good luck tomorrow on your first big trek.
Go Phils!
Love you!
Kathy, Thinking of you…you go girl!
Vic and Jules,
Wishing you the best on your first day of hiking tomorrow! We are with you in spirit…but I will work out in your honor tomorrow morning, although I may not break a sweat.
Love - jamie, tiff, alexis, loren, alyssa, bebe and papa
Jon and Sam - hope you guys had a great YK in Peru today. We were thinking of you during our fast. Saw the pictures and video posted on the Peru Rocks website - wow, and we are jealous and excited for you. Thanks for your notes and keep us posted. J - Sox start tomorrow and I will keep you up to date. Love you.
Mom and Dad
I wish you all well. Good Luck on your climb.
I look forward to hearing about the children from
the Cancer Center. Stay safe. Keep rockin!
Austin
Greetings Trekkers!
Ok, so a big day awaits you in the morning, having said that; be sure to drink plenty of tea, cocoa, or the beverage of your choice and celebrate your impending challenge till the “wee hours” of the morning…BAD ADVICE indeed
Please be sure to get plenty of rest despite the electrical buzz that dances through your cerbellums! Drink plenty of replenishing fluids and stay away from the sodas, caffeine, and other zany so called “energy” drinks…you will thus stave off possible dehydration. Hey Mike, you are about to show the entire planet once again that not only are the Welsh the worlds best singers, but also hold their own very well as mountaineering experts!
Good luck to all!
Alan
Julie and Vic,
Loving you and missing you dearly. All is well on the home front though. Alexis wants to know when we can call you! I know you are all excited about beginning your journey tomorrow.
Not sure if i told you before you left but my friend Lauren was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She had her MRI today so we will know her treatment plan shortly. A difficult journey ahead so please keep her in your thoughts while making your trek up the mountain, She has a huge climb ahead of her.
You are all an inspiration to us! Wishing you lots of love, hope and strength.
Love you tons!
Tiffany, Alexis and Alyssa, too!
Lyn Nelson, Katrina, and Cy Curnin - Lyn you really photographed beautifully! Thanks for the updated e-mail! Katrina it was great to see the face behind the message board. I know we have never met but on occasion we have blogged. So it is a pleasure to have met you via cyberspace. Speaking of CY ber space - Cy it is great to see that you made it! Your hair is growing in really great! Sad to see Jamie did not go along. I also know that you must have heard this a million times already but Toyota Corolla has murdered “Saved By Zero” However it is a pleasant reminder of a band I love. Think they have that commercial in Peru? You must sing it loud and proud to set the record straight!
Live,Love,Laugh - Sherri from New Jersey
Dear Cy and Friends,
Great to see you arriving in Peru looking so well and happy! So sorry Jamie couldn’t join you, but I know you’ll give everyone a crash course in Fixxology! I had the second attempt at my medical test Tuesday - a lot of pain, and they still couldn’t see what I’m dealing with, so I may be headed for exploratory surgery. I want to thank you and the people on this trek for the support you’ve given to people in situations like this, sometimes to to each other. It makes coping so much easier, and enables us to focus on the warmth of our friends instead of fear and pain. That’s a wonderful gift. I really, really hope to see you in November. Love from Syracuse, Care
Shannon and the Peru Rocks Gang,
Tomorrow,is the day you all have trained for,worked for,hoped and prayed for too.As you all prepare to start, I think of the marathons starts I did. looking around and seeing so many different abilites, ages,etc. It reminded me that we all start a race (trek) for many reasons,but when the finish line comes,(end of the Inca Trail),the reason is the same—there was a goal and the determination to meet that goal!!! My prayer,is that each and everyone of you meets it!!!
Love Shannon Mom
P.S. Drink Water!!
Dear Team:
Congrats on your arrival to Cusco, its a beautiful city! Much much cleaner than Lima. Dont be shy about chewing or drinking the Cocoa Tea…it helps wonders with the altitude sickness.
Good news, Machu Picchu is lower altitude so your travels will be easier.
Could not join you this year BUT looking forward to next years trek wherever it may be, I will be there!
When at Machu Picchu be sure to take the EXTRA hike to the guards tower called Waynapicchu, its well worth it, and the view is amazing.
Best of luck, love, hope & strength,
Martin Davis.
Thanks for all the messages! We love hearing from all of you!
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