Why do we climb mountains? Some may cite the famous words of George Mallory, “Because it is there”. Others may reply: “for my strength”, “for my endurance”, or “for my independence”.
But, on a deeper level, climbing mountains ultimately delves into the essence of the human spirit. It’s a time of reflection about who we are and where we are going, a time of humility, and also a time for overcoming obstacles and fear.
When it comes to facing challenges, this is even more true for stroke victims whose greatest chance of regaining physical abilities is within the first few months after.
The Mahkota Neurological & Stroke Centre of the Mahkota Medical Centre (MMC), Malacca, recognised this challenge to persevere as an important quality of a stroke survivor. Hence, it decided to celebrate that spirit with a Charity Climbathon to raise funds in support of the National Stroke Association Malaysia’s initiatives to provide rehabilitation, especially for stroke survivors.
In conjunction with MMC’s 20th anniversary, 20 medical staff and consultants were sent on a five-day journey to Sabah to climb Mount Kinabalu.
Preparations began way before. MMC had a vigorous nomination and elimination process to select suitable staff. “It only took a mention of having to carry 10-kilo bags of rice on their backs to scare people during the selection process,” said Danny Tan, who was one of the organisers.
Soon after the selection, the group of 20 (including four doctors), got together for a training hike at Gunung Ledang in Johor, and later on at Gunung Angsi in Negeri Sembilan. For many of them, this was the first time they were doing serious jungle hiking.
On the expedition day on August 20 in Sabah, the team was brimming with eagerness and anticipation. From the Timpohon gate at the foothills of Kinabalu, the team was split into four groups. Off they went, carrying for themselves all the supplies they needed for the night.
With every step forward, the team got a little closer to the 6km distance mark of Laban Rata, where they would rest through the evening until it was time to continue the journey to the summit. Filled with a spirit of adventure and excitement, the team kept their morale up by bantering with each other in the forest.
The sight of beautiful wild flowers, berries, as well as the squirrels, was pleasing to behold during the climb. Along the way, the MMC team also helped two travellers with cramps.
By mid-afternoon, every member of the team arrived at Laban Rata. After an early night’s sleep, the team would gather at 2am the next morning to reach the peak, just in time to catch the sunrise.
But this was dashed with the persistent rain, which caused waterfalls in parts of the track, thus making it dangerous to begin climbing again. The guides advised the team to try the trek at 6am instead, which was a safer option.
The team were a little apprehensive and tired, but grateful for the second chance of hiking up on the same day. We went back to our hostel chambers and reassembled at the cafeteria by 5.30am. Finally, by 10.30am, the whole team made it to the summit.
They looked out from the peak with much joy and satisfaction. Despite all the pain, weariness, and the craving to give up, each team member succeeded in the climbathon. There was a good round of pictures and pats on the back! It was surely an event to tell loved ones back home.
But despite reaching the summit, the challenge had not ended yet. Raindrops had started falling again and what was difficult on the climb up became more dangerous on the climb down.
The team edged their way gingerly on slippery surfaces, gripping wet ropes at high-risk zones. Relieved hugs were exchanged as prayers of protection were answered.
Back in Laban Rata, the team made the decision to trek back to the entrance gate on the same day, so we packed up all our belongings and headed down the rainforest in the pouring rain.
Despite being drenched, cold and tired, the team knew they had to carry on, although the last stretch of the journey appeared to be the most strenuous part of the expedition. There would be a victorious prize of hot showers and a nice warm bed at the end of the day!
Finally, we made it back to the entrance gate. During the van ride back, the smell of sweat contrasted with the sweet triumphant spirit. We savoured the glorious moment of achievement. Although the team was physically exhausted, they were glowing. The mind dulled the sharp edge of the difficult times, and buffed up the good memories.
The MMC team agreed that strong encouragement for each other helped them all make it. “This strengthened us as a team,” said Firdaus Pasha Paul, one of the climbers.
All 20 medical staff who succeeded in the climb hope there will be further awareness for the rehabilitation of stroke survivors in Malaysia.
“Stroke is one of the largest causes of death in Malaysia after heart disease and cancer. It is considered to be the single most common cause of severe disability, and every year, an estimated 40,000 people in Malaysia suffer from stroke,” said Stanley Lam, MMC’s Chief Executive Officer.
“Such grim statistics are not likely to improve in the coming years, given the rising trend of risk factors that contribute to cardiovascular diseases. Thus, the Climbathon helps us raise awareness within the community about stroke and the importance of rehabilitation. The funds raised for the climb will provide medical assistance to stroke patients and survivors.”
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