Sherman is preparing to hike Mt. Shasta in northern California this June to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP).
After four of Sherman’s friends battled Breast Cancer, she decided to challenge herself with the steep, 14,179-foot climb through ice in coordination with Climb Against the Odds (CAO).
“Every dollar I raise and every time I train, I’m more and more motivated to do this,” Sherman said.
To prepare, Sherman trains five days a week with two of her friends. She does two days of weight training, one day biking or running, and another day backpacking. While many activities can be completed nearby or outdoors, she travels to Pittsburgh occasionally.
“Last time we went to the Cathedral building in Pittsburgh with over 30 flights and climbed it three times with weighted vests,” Sherman said.
When Sherman first began training, her fundraising goal started at $6,000, but she has continued to raise it as friends, community and more people heard of her story. Currently, Sherman has raised over $8,000.
“As I keep fundraising, I keep meeting more and more people that have been impacted by breast cancer, and I’m recognizing how devastating this disease really is,” Sherman said.
On the first day of hiking Mt. Shasta, the group will reach base camp, where they will learn how to use ice axes, ropes and crampons. During the second day, the group will wake up at 2 a.m. and hike to the summit.
“I’ve climbed two 14ers, but never with ice and snow. This is totally out of my comfort zone,” Sherman said.
All the money donated before and during the hike will directly benefit BCPP. None of the funds go towards Sherman, who must cover her registration fee, flight and gear costs. Some companies have sponsored Sherman’s hike, like Marmot sending hiking pants, rain pants and a jacket. Another company offered a discount to their products.
BCPP is a charitable nonprofit that forwards 71% of income towards programmatic work, according to their website.
“The biggest thing I like about this organization is that they’re not doing research on curing breast cancer, but doing research on prevention,” Sherman said.
P-T’s Student Union also organized two fundraisers through Tropical Smoothie and Applebee’s to raise funds for the cause.
“Showing students that you can do something beyond what you think you’re capable of doing for a greater cause is very motivating for me,” Sherman said.
Sherman will carry “prayer flags” that can be written on with the names of those impacted by breast cancer. The flags will be carried during the trek and flown at the summit.
Asher, Sherman’s therapy dog brought to help students during the school day, will not be completing the hike with her.
“Unfortunately he doesn’t have the drive and determination to do the training,” Sherman said laughing.
Any donations can be sent through this link: https://donate.bcpp.org/fundraiser/6839168